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			 The program gives formal recognition to those who 
			contributed to their community's quality of life through projects 
			that have strong volunteer support, meet a need, and make a 
			definitive impact. 
 "Much of what has been BORN, BUILT & GROWN in Illinois is thanks to 
			community volunteers," said Governor Rauner. "As we celebrate 
			Illinois' bicentennial, it is important to recognize the strong 
			communities and dedicated volunteers who have worked to make 
			Illinois a great state."
 
 Interested townships, villages, cities, and counties can apply now 
			through August 1, 2018 for projects that use volunteers in their 
			communities for the period of January 1, 2017 through December 31, 
			2017. For additional information regarding program criteria and the 
			application process, please visit
			www.Serve. Illinois.gov.
 
			The Serve Illinois Commission is a 40-member (25 
			voting and 15 non-voting), bipartisan board appointed by the 
			Governor and administered by the Illinois Department of Public 
			Health (IDPH). Its mission is to improve Illinois communities by 
			enhancing volunteerism and instilling an ethic of service throughout 
			the State. 
            [to top of second column] | 
            
			 
			ABOUT ILLINOIS BICENTENNIAL:
			
 On Dec. 3, 1818, Illinois became the 21st state in 
			the union. The Illinois Bicentennial is a yearlong celebration of 
			what has been BORN, BUILT & GROWN in the state and a reminder of why 
			we are #IllinoisProud.
 
			
			 
			Citizens are encouraged to participate in the 
			celebration by visiting www.illinois200.com and using the hashtag #IllinoisProud. 
			Partners and event and project managers planning activities between 
			Dec. 3, 2017, and Dec. 3, 2018, can apply for endorsement to become 
			an official part of Illinois Bicentennial by visiting the 
			PARTICIPATE page at 
			www.illinois200.com. 
				 
		[Scott McFarland, Serve Illinois] |