They show up, every single day: The Illinois Valley’s reader-nominated Everyday Heroes of 2026
A PE teacher who turned grief into a mental health movement. A school resource officer who never says he’s too busy. A Marine who’s always there. Meet the Illinois Valley’s reader-nominated 2026 Everyday Heroes.
‘Epitome of a volunteer’: Marseilles man’s legacy built on service
Raikes traces his commitment to service back to his childhood in Marseilles, because he had role models who instilled the importance of putting community before self.
Getting people back on their feet at A Servant’s Heart
With a background in accounting and an appreciation for small business, Hall is the volunteer treasurer for A Servant’s Heart, a role she said suits her on several levels.
34 years of open doors: A teacher’s legacy at Seneca High
Applebee is retiring after 34 years at Seneca High School. In her final year, former students and colleagues are reflecting on how she transformed literature into lived experience – and created a classroom where every student felt
Foundation founder builds unique support system from his battle with heroin addiction
Shaped by his own experience battling a heroin addiction, Tomsha has built a support system for those shaped by his own experience.
‘Just as energized as I was the first day’: Bereaved dad turned a personal tragedy into community outreach
Meet Joshua Jahn. His wife and two small children were struck and killed by a drunk driver in 2008. He’s spent most of the past two decades speaking to DUI convicts and getting them to rethink their
‘It’s rewarding’: L-P trainer has been helping athletes for 26 years
More than cameras: How one SRO built a culture of safety at Seneca High
Photos: Meet the 2026 Everyday Heroes in the Illinois Valley
Photos: Meet the 2026 Everyday Heroes in the Illinois Valley
The Illinois Valley honors the everyday heroes making a difference in DeKalb County through their hard work, kindness and dedication.”