Applications Open For Illinois 'Hometown Awards'

Do you know a Stateline area volunteer who's working hard to improve local communities?

If so, now's the time to submit applications for the 32nd annual "Governor's Hometown Awards". The goal of the program is to honor those who have contributed to their community’s quality of life. The guidelines say the projects undertaken must have had strong volunteer support, have met a need, and made a definitive impact.

Michael Shake, ThinkStock

The award is handed out to six different population segments (based on size of community) and will be given out in six categories:

Beautification and Sustainability Projects
Parks and Recreation Projects
Memorials and Monuments Projects
History & Historic Preservation Projects
Services & Mentorship Projects
General Projects

The application deadline is approaching soon. Community groups, local governments, youth groups or agencies are encouraged to apply by August 18. The instructions to enter can be found here. Award winners will be recognized at the Governor's Mansion in Springfield.

However, as if to prove nothing is beyond the reach of our state's dismal fiscal situation, the contest comes with a caveat: