Goodwill receives $250,000 to expand local business training: Stadelman

State Senator Steve Stadelman announced this week that Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois and Wisconsin Stateline Area has won $250,000 in Illinois Economic Empowerment Centers funding to build a diverse business ecosystem in the Rockford area.

One of only 10 recipients statewide dividing a total of $2.5 million, Goodwill will use the grant to provide training in all aspects of business development and small business management to individuals, entrepreneurs and other non-profits from historically disinvested communities.

“Goodwill plays a vital role in our community," Stadelman said, "and this funding will enable Goodwill to expand its reach and build a more equitable and prosperous future for everyone.”

For more information, please visit the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunitywebsite.


 

Senate passes Stadelman bills to prevent utility cutoffs and allow blood-typing for teens

Two legislative proposals sponsored by State Senator Steve Stadelman were approved this week in the Illinois Senate: Both bills -- having already been passed in the Illinois House, where they were introducted by State Rep. Maurice West -- now head to the governor's desk. If signed into law:

  • Utility customers who apply for assistance through the state's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or the Percentage of Income Payment Plan would be protected from disconnection for 30 days after the utility receives notice of the customer’s application. If assistance is received, the customer would be protected for an additional 45 days.
     

  • The age of consent to receive blood-typing services in Illinois would drop to 17. Rock River Valley Blood Center advocated for the change, which is expected to streamline health care for young adults. The blood bank uses blood typing as a way to educate high school students on the benefits of donating blood.

 

Make time Monday for "Coffee with the Crew" at CherryVale Mall

State Senator Steve Stadelman encourages people with an interest in the Interstate 39 reconstruction that's currently under way to accept an offer by learn more about the project and enjoy a cup of coffee. I-39 serves as a vital transportation artery for northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, connecting communities, industries and travelers in the region. The state's "Rebuild I-39" project will improve driving conditions at interchanges and connectivity with adjacent roads, alleviate congestion on the highway and enhance safety.

 


In case you missed me on Facebook ...

Steve Stadelman is in Springfield, IL
May 14 at 5:18 PM

Six Belvidere Fire Department firefighters, who responded when a tornado hit the Apollo Theater last March, were honored for their heroism at a state ceremony in Springfield. Firefighters go to work every day not knowing what to expect. Thank you!

Medal of Honor Recipients:
Lieutenant Travis Tangye
Lieutenant Nicolas Thornton
Firefighter Zachary Bullard
Firefighter James Kriebs
Firefighter Matt Loudenbeck
Firefighter Greg Pavlatos

Steve Stadelman is at Illinois State University
May 12 at 9:57 PM

Congrats Nik Stadelman! ISU Class of 2024. Looking forward to your next chapter!