The United Way of Central Illinois holds a unique and vital position in our community. It serves as a bridge between those who can give and those who are in need, fostering a culture of collaboration, compassion and collective impact. From mobilizing volunteers to uniting local nonprofits around shared goals, United Way plays a crucial […]
Section Feature
Posted inArts & Culture
Building trust and community
In central Illinois I like to think we pride ourselves on being a community rooted in hard work, common sense and goodwill to our neighbors. Yet, lately, it seems our shared values have been shaken by the winds of fear and misinformation. This past month, a rumor swept through town like wildfire: “Venezuelan street gangs […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Mary’s role in the Christmas story
And she gave birth to her firstborn son … Luke 2:7 Mary plays a unique and prominent role in the Judeo-Christian story of a sacred journey. It is Mary who brings God’s son into the world. In her womb she carried the One Christians call Wonderful Counselor, Almighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Mary’s significance […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Christmas mysteries
Have you ever noticed the many mysteries that center around Christmas? Children anxiously wonder and anticipate what they are going to get for Christmas. Millions of shoppers wonder how they are going to pay for the gifts they have bought. Others are mystified by the “magical feat” of getting millions of shoppers in only hundreds […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Quality, affordability and flexibility in online learning
When it comes to earning a degree or certificate or taking a class to help advance a career, are you one of the many adults looking for quality, affordability and flexibility to be able to pursue your goals? Perhaps you are managing full-time work or working multiple jobs, have family or other personal responsibilities, or […]
Posted inArts & Culture
The entrepreneurial spirit is alive in Springfield
As the director of Innovate Springfield, the University of Illinois Springfield’s business incubator, I’m excited to share the momentum we’re building within our entrepreneurial community. Since joining iSPI in August last year, our team has worked to ignite Springfield’s startup scene with fresh, dynamic programming. Today, I’m proud to say we’re achieving that vision. Our […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Be thankful for your problems
That most American of holidays has arrived. And, even though the merchants would have us believe that holiday is Christmas, it’s actually Thanksgiving. In many homes throughout the country, the day will be celebrated in the grand tradition of feasting, football and family feuds! Others will pause to reflect on the blessings they enjoy, for […]
Posted inArts & Culture
We gratefully acknowledge
The Thanksgiving holiday which we will celebrate in the coming week is a time for family gatherings and festive meals and for giving voice to our feelings of gratitude – whether by attending special services at our house of worship or by reciting grace as we sit around the dining table. For sports enthusiasts, there […]
Posted inArts & Culture
United Way works to spread holiday cheer across central Illinois
As the holiday season approaches, United Way of Central Illinois is gearing up to spread joy, compassion and support throughout our community. This time of year brings unique opportunities to connect with others and give back, and United Way has organized several impactful initiatives for the season. Whether it’s bringing cheer to seniors, supporting local […]
Posted inArts & Culture
Synod: A different field of vision
For most earthlings, the Oct. 27 closing of the Roman Catholic Church’s synod on synodality will have been a tinier blip on the radar than the outcome of the Nov. 5 U.S. presidential election. Whatever your feelings about that election – and I have plenty, as you might – I suspect that over time the […]
Posted inArts & Culture
You shall rejoice in your festival
The Jewish lunar month of Tishri, which falls in September and October on the civil calendar, is the busiest time of the Jewish year, filled with holidays and observances both solemn and joyous. Within the past two weeks we have celebrated Rosh Hashanah (the New Year) and Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement), the start […]
Posted inArts & Culture
In-demand and rewarding careers in health care
Would you like a career where you could help people while earning a sweet income with full benefits? How about the ability to find a job in your field no matter how your life changes or where you choose to move? Do you enjoy a flexible schedule, being part of a team, learning the latest […]
