THRIVE Magazine 2025-2026 by Shaw Media

KANKAKEE COUNTY, ILLINOIS

K ankakee County IS a world class community.

Kankakee County IS a world class community.

K ankakee County IS a world class community.

We are built on determination, drive, and diligence. Here, industry, infrastructure, and innovation aren’t just words they are the foundation of our progress. Kankakee County place where opportunity is abundant, collaboration is strong, and success is achievable.

We are built on determination, drive, and diligence. Here, industry, infrastructure, and innovation aren’t just words they are the foundation of our progress. Kankakee County is a place where opportunity is abundant, collaboration is strong, and success is achievable.

We are built on determination, drive, and diligence. Here, industry, infrastructure, and innovation aren’t just words — they are the foundation of our progress. Kankakee County is a place where opportunity is abundant, collaboration is strong, and success is achievable.

Our community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our region to the world.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect region to the world.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our region to the world.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark fiber networks.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal specialized training opportunities available locally

EDUCATION: Strong K-12 school systems, Kankakee Community College and Olivet Nazarene University, paired with robust workforce training programs, prepare residents for success in local careers and the global economy.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

At the foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce training initiatives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. From foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certificate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

At the foundation of this vibrant community is education Our schools, colleges, technical programs and training initiatives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. From foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate bachelor’s degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

At the foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce training initiatives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. From foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

By investing in education, we are investing in people. An educated and upskilled workforce - including those trained in high-demand trades - not only attracts businesses but also fuels innovation, collaboration, and personal achievement. This is how we create opportunities, how we build progress, and how we secure longterm prosperity for Kankakee County.

By investing in education, we are investing in people. An educated and upskilled workforce - including those trained in high-demand trades - not only attracts businesses but also fuels innovation, collaboration, and achievement. This is how we create opportunities, how we build progress, and how we secure long-term prosperity for Kankakee County

We are fortunate to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the tools they need to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation for tomorrow.

Kankakee County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

We are fortunate to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers tools they need to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation tomorrow.

We ARE a world class community.

Kankakee County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

We ARE a world class community.

Angela Morrey Interim President & CEO Economic Alliance of Kankakee County

Angela Morrey President & CEO Economic Alliance of Kankakee County

Angela Morrey Interim President & CEO Economic Alliance of Kankakee County

Kankakee County

Contributors: Tiffany Blanchette, Jeff Bonty, Chris Breach, Dave Fidlin, Stephanie Markham, Lee Provost, Mason Schweizer.

Photographer: Tiffany Blanchette

Graphic Design: Kristin McKenrick

2025 ECONOMIC INDICATORS kankakee county

Land area in square miles: 676.56

Population: 107,502

Median household income: $66,788

Poverty rate: 9.9%

Employment Rate: 59.6%

Median Household Income: $66,788

RACE

White alone: 68.9%

Black or African American: 14.6%

Asian: 0.95%

American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.05%

Two or more races: 2.2%

Hispanic or Latino: 12.1%

HOUSING

Housing units: 45,487

Homeownership Rate: 70.8%

Households: 41,130

EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher: 92.9%

Bachelor’s degree or higher: 20.9%

ECONOMY

Civilian labor force: 50,638

Total jobs: 42,500

Occupational breakdown:

• Healthcare practitioners & technical: 11.6%

• Office & administrative support: 10.5%

• Food preparation & service related: 9.8%

• Transportation & material moving: 9.7%

• Production/Manufacturing: 8.8%

• Sales & related: 8.5%

• Educational instruction & library: 7.2%

• Management: 6.4%

• Healthcare support: 5.6%

• Installation, maintenance & repair: 3.7%

• Business & financial operations: 3.3%

TRANSPORTATION

Average commute time: 24.9 minutes

(Sources:

KANKAKEE

Population: 24,052

Median household income: $45,119

Total housing units: 11,309

Employment rate: 53.3%

High school graduate or higher: 81.1%

School enrollment, K-12 DIST 111: 4,619

Graduation rate: 78%

BRADLEY

Population: 15,419

Median household income: $62,940

Total housing units: 6,375

Employment rate: 67%

High school graduate or higher: 92.7%

School enrollment

Elementary District 61 K-8: 1,285

BBCHS District 307: 1,840

BBCHS High School Graduation rate: 93%

BOURBONNAIS

Population: 18,109

Median household income: $81,017

Total households: 6,500

High school graduate or higher: 95.4%

School enrollment

Elementary District 53 K-8: 2,331

BBCHS District 307: 1,840

BBCHS High School Graduation rate: 93%

MANTENO

Population: 9,210

Median household income: $96,057

Total housing units: 4,033

Employment Rate: 60.1%

High school graduate or higher: 95.9%

School Enrollment CUSD 5: 1,775

Manteno High School Graduation rate: 92%

MOMENCE

Population: 3,117

Median household income: $52,048

Total housing units: 1,241

Employment rate: 61.4%

School enrollment, K-12 CUSD 1: 994

Momence High School Graduation rate: 94%

EMPLOYERS (150 employees or more)

ABC Coating 160

All Star Management 441

A.N. Webber Inc 280

AHF Products 285

Crown Holdings Inc. 155

CSL Behring 1,500

Del Monte Fresh Produce Company 175

Gardant Management Solutions 140

Gotion 250

Heartland Harvest / Our Home 150

IKO Midwest Inc. 162

Illinois Veterans’ Home 368

Indian Oaks Academy 310

Kankakee Community College 377

Kensing 230

Midwest Transit 300

Monical’s Pizza Corporation 139

NFI Industries 260

Olivet Nazarene University 560

Nucor Steel 420

Pactiv Evergreen 210

Peddinghaus Corporation 290

Rise Baking 180

Riverside Healthcare 2,900

River Valley Recycling 196

Shapiro Developmental Center 1,200

St. Mary’s Hospital 773

Shoup Manufacturing 200

Silva International 265

Urban Farmer LLC 450

Valspar / Sherwin Williams Company 170

Van Drunen Farms 738

IN THE BUSINESS OF Development

Kankakee County’s various industries see expansion, investment

Kankakee County has seen an influx of capital improvements over the past five years, totaling $2.5 billion spread among several manufacturers and businesses.

Tied to that number is $8.8 billion of products that were exported from Kankakee County during the same time period.

Four recent projects have been the anchor for that investment:

• $2 billion into the Gotion lithium battery plant in Manteno;

• $35 million in upgrades at CSL Behring in Bourbonnais Township to support a 5.6-acre electrical substation onsite;

• $5 million renovation at Heartland Harvest in Kankakee; and

• $4.1 million into the Ken Hayes Industrial Park in Bradley.

The Gotion plant has the potential for 2,600 jobs over the entire build-out of the plant, while Heartland Harvest’s parent company, Our Home, is relocating all production lines to the Kankakee site, bringing an additional 90 employees.

The $8.8 billion in products exported dispels the myth that there’s nothing made in Kankakee County. Here’s a glimpse at some of the business happening in Kankakee County.

Gotion Illinois’ commitment in Illinois continues to grow

Against the backdrop of a $2 billion commitment, Gotion Illinois continues to grow its 1.5 millionsquare-foot power storage technology company on 153 acres in Manteno. A key component of the company’s investment is the pledge of high-paying jobs.

In 2025, Gotion Illinois began operating multiple production lines as it rolled out large energy storage systems (ESS), home storage products, and commissioned production of two lines for EV battery packs that also produce other products.

Phase two battery cell production lines, a substantial three-shift production process utilizing world-leading cell technology, are underway and are targeted for completion in the second quarter of 2026.

At full build-out, Gotion Illinois has indicated it plans to have in place 2,600 high-quality jobs. By the end of 2025, Gotion had more than 450 of these jobs in place as it began laying roots within the community.

According to the company, and per state law, wages offered for the workforce are at a minimum of 120% above the regional average. This also includes training and comprehensive benefits packages.

Development

County IS a world class community.

“Our mandate is be local, for local,” Mark Kreusel, Gotion’s Vice President of Manufacturing, said. “That means local people, using an ever-increasing percentage of local materials to produce a global technology for the benefit of local communities.”

on determination, drive, and diligence. Here, industry, infrastructure, and aren’t just words they are the foundation of our progress. Kankakee County is a opportunity is abundant, collaboration is strong, and success

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

The company’s local workforce, to date, has been comprised of a mix of 37% professionals, 34% laborers and helpers, and 15% first- and mid-level officials and managers.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads the world.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

Currently, 83% of Gotion’s workforce is within the Kankakee County region, and 19% of that pool of workers lives directly within Manteno. The company has pledged to primarily recruit its workforce at the Manteno facility within the region, and that is playing out as promised.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

Gotion Illinois’ presence in Manteno was expected to bring $2 million in annual property tax revenue, double the previous amount, which will trickle down

to numerous community entities, including local schools. During the first year of operation, property taxes doubled, leading to the largest drop in tax rate on record with the Rockville-Manteno assessor.

EDUCATION: Strong K-12 school systems, Kankakee Community College and Olivet Nazarene University, with robust workforce training programs, prepare residents for success in local careers and the economy

Urban Farmer continues staggering growth

foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

education, we are investing in people. An educated and upskilled workforce ncluding those demand trades not only attracts businesses but also fuels innovation, collaboration, and personal

“In about six months, we grew the business to about 500 employees,” said Keigher, who is Urban Farmer’s human resources manager. “It was a huge expansion, and we landed some really great customers, with some great contracts.”

This is how we create , how we build progress, and how we secure long-term Kankakee County

Amid the company’s meteoric rise, Urban Farmer has stayed close to its core vision: “to make better-for-you foods the everyday choice.”

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of we are laying the foundation for

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

class community.

WhenJonathan Keigher joined Urban Farmer in 2018, he was employee No. 45. Within a very short time, however, he went from being a rookie on the staff roster to a veteran.

President & CEO

Urban Farmer, which was founded in Manteno in 2013, is a comanufacturing partner with leading consumer package companies, food service providers, and retailers in need of stocking their shelves with quality frozen foods. Keigher, who routinely gives tours of Urban Farmer’s facility, said visitors are oftentimes pleasantly surprised when they discover what takes place behind the scenes.

“I think it’s the coolest thing to see the connection,” Keigher said. “When somebody walks through our manufacturing process, they see very familiar labels that they go and buy at the grocery store. We produce some of the best brands out there, and it’s made right here, in the community’s backyard.”

While food is the core component of Urban Farmer’s operations, Keigher said the people employed within the company across scores of different jobs are at the heart of the company’s successes.

“Our people really are our proprietary information,” Keigher said. “They drive us home. They’re the boots on the ground, and they do a fantastic job for us. Our people always come first. We foster a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace.”

Heritage FS invests $10M in area farming

Helping Kankakee and Will county farmers grow their best crops is the mission of Heritage FS, located just east of the tiny St. George community in eastern Kankakee County.

But don’t think the company is only working on grain production for area agriculture professionals.

The company has also been busy for the past three years planting the seeds for what has been an approximate $10 million site expansion in the middle of corn and soybean production in this ag-based region.

“It’s been a long process,” said Jeff LaFollet, Heritage site manager. “But it’s been worth it.”

The investment started in August 2022 with a 9,600-squarefoot maintenance facility. That was just the start.

Heritage FS then constructed a 1 million-gallon liquid nitrogen tank on the property’s northern edge of a 14-acre location. The large black tank was completed in late 2022.

Management then received the construction go-ahead on the state-of-the-art liquid fertilizer and chemical storage and loading building. The project began in late 2022.

Like so many construction projects in the postCOVID-19 world, some building materials were in short supply, which lengthened the construction process. The project is expected to be completed this month,

Keigher said Urban Farmer’s consistent ranking in industry standards, often with “excellent” scores, in terms of engagement results, reflects the company’s commitment and dedication to its workforce. “We’re investing in our growth, with training, development and opportunities,” he said.

While Urban Farmer strives to invest in its workforce, Keigher said the company also has a hard-line stance when it comes to operational matters and quality control.

“Safety, for us, is always non-negotiable,” Keigher said. “We always want employees to practice safe behaviors and have a healthy working environment. That’s No. 1 on our list. We also want to produce good, safe, quality food for everybody.”

LaFollett said. This expansion will allow the site to have 75,000 gallons of liquid herbicide on hand as well as 180,000 gallons of liquid fertilizers.

LaFollet and J.D. Marquis, of Herscher, the location’s precision farming specialist, said this increases its ability to serve the region’s farmers with its 25-member fulltime staff.

“I’m impressed,” LaFollet said as he looked out his office window at the plant and its operation. “I’ve been around this type of stuff all my life. This is something.”

As there have been site consolidations throughout the FS network, Marquis said it was clear the St. George location urgently needed to increase its capacity.

“We knew we had to increase what we do here to serve our farmers,” he said.

Development

County IS a world class community.

Riverside named among nation’s top teaching hospitals, continuing upgrades

Riverside Medical Center, named a 100 Top Hospital by Premier Inc. for being one of the top teaching hospitals in the country, is a go-to for students looking for a future in healthcare. Riverside Healthcare actively works with the region’s universities and community colleges.

continuously strives to offer the latest and greatest in healthcare and related technology.

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

This year, two new two-year tuition scholarships, funded by a donation from Riverside, are available for Olivet’s junior and senior nursing students.

To benefit patients and staff, Riverside has expanded imaging technology at the Bourbonnais Campus by installing three brand-new medical imaging units that offer quicker results with shorter wait times.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our the world.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

The new PET/CT scanner is the region’s first and only permanent technology. It offers easier and more timely scheduling options for patients and eliminates the reliance on mobile scanners that visit the area weekly or monthly.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

Additionally, new MRI and CT machines were installed.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally

“Riverside is proud to partner with Olivet to invest in students who are pursuing their nursing degree,” said Phil Kambic, President and CEO of Riverside Healthcare. “We believe in continually supporting our employees to help them provide the highest quality of care for our patients. This investment is a natural step in pursuit of our mission, and everyone benefits — Olivet, our employees and our patients.”

Tuition can vary based on other scholarships an Olivet student may have. Recipients agree to work at Riverside in their junior and senior years, minimally, on a temporary relief (TR) basis (two 8-hour shifts monthly) until graduation. In addition, recipients agree to work at Riverside for three years post-graduation.

“Riverside is proud to introduce our new state-of-theart CT and MRI scanners and the region’s first and only permanent PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scanning technology,” said Kambic. “These cutting-edge upgrades at our Bourbonnais Campus are already elevating the patient experience and equipping our staff with invaluable resources.”

foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

Over at Kankakee Community College, students are offered multiple certifications in partnership with Riverside Medical Center, including: Paramedic, AAS; Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic; Emergency Medical Technician - Basic.

education, we are investing in people. An educated and upskilled workforce - including those demand trades - not only attracts businesses but also fuels innovation, collaboration, and personal

This is how we create opportunities, how we build progress, and how we secure long-term Kankakee County.

As the county’s largest employer, Riverside Healthcare

These scanners offer a variety of diagnostic capabilities, including the ability to diagnose, stage, and plan treatment for patients with various forms of cancer. They also help evaluate and diagnose brain abnormalities, such as tumors, Alzheimer’s disease, seizures, and other central nervous system disorders. Technological advances also equip the scanners for cutting-edge cardiac and neurologic imaging.

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation for

class community.

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

New St. Mary’s Hospital owner pledges $20 million in capital upgrades

InMarch 2025, Kankakee’s 128-year-old St. Mary’s Hospital underwent new ownership, and the transition came with the first in a series of capital equipment upgrades within the 182-bed facility that has long been a cornerstone of the community.

Prime Healthcare acquired St. Mary’s and several other medical facilities within Illinois from prior owner Ascension Hospitals. In its first five years of ownership, through 2030, Prime Healthcare is pledging $20 million in capital infusions into St. Mary’s.

Otis Story Sr., St. Mary’s Chief Executive Officer, said the new dollars are welcome for a local institution that he described as “starved of capital,” prior to Prime Healthcare’s acquisition.

Story said Prime Healthcare executives got to work within months of the acquisition, investing $2.3 million in operational improvements at St. Mary’s in the summer months of 2025.

“This was a very, very quick turnaround,” Story said. “This was Prime Healthcare’s way of demonstrating their commitment to this institution.”

Some of the recent improvements — plumbing upgrades, for example — are not readily recognizable, but are a critical component of St. Mary’s fulfilling its mission to the community.

But there have been other large-scale upgrades throughout the facility. One of the biggest ticket improvements, to date, has been the installation of new medical equipment within St. Mary’s radiology suite, which represented an $850,000 capital investment.

Additionally, Prime Healthcare allocated funds for the installation of 215 new IV infusion pumps for the nursing personnel working within all components of the hospital. A series of IT-related computer hardware and software upgrades took place. Combined, these two investments exceeded $1 million.

St. Mary’s also welcomed four new physicians into the organization in 2025 through its “fast track program,” designed to bring next-generation clinical providers into the fold. Joining the team in 2025: Dr. Carlos Gonzalez (general surgery), Dr. Adham Karim (interventional cardiologist), Dr. Osman Aman (internal medicine), and Dr. Usman Zaheer (medical oncology).

“These individuals are here to enhance the quality of care for this community,” Story said. “We will continue to recruit and onboard additional internal medicine doctors and family practitioners. It’s an ongoing process that we are engaged in.”

With greater competition for consumer attention and increased focus on corporate responsibility and environmental protection, it has never been more critical for brand owners to make packaging choices that have a positive impact

COMMUNITY Development

Asign of a strong region is consistent community development. Kankakee County continues to grow with more options for residents – from shared community spaces to recreational spaces that allow for increased tourism.

Bourbonnais Grove a new community home

Bourbonnais recently completed its $18 million community campus in the center of the village. The 12.5-acre complex includes a performing arts stage, viewing hill, walking trails, skate park, concession stand and more.

The Grove has played host to concerts, family movie nights, lunch time eats, and Friday night social time. This past summer, it welcomed Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson as she visited the set of Acting Out Theatre Co.’s “Godspell,” which was performed on The Grove’s center stage. Additionally, it served as the space for the annual Relay For Life fundraiser.

Throw in a few fire pits, a splash pad and an ultra-cool playground, and residents and officials have a perfect recipe for a gathering point for everyone whether a village resident or someone visiting Kankakee County.

“Everything we have been doing at The Grove is based upon the input of residents,” said Lindy Casey, Bourbonnais’ marketing and public engagement director.

Over the summer, The Grove hosted the Village of Bourbonnais’ 50th annual Friendship Festival. The space allowed for a more cohesive flow of the family-friendly event, which takes place each year in June.

Just across the street from The Grove is a staple of the village’s French-Candadian roots – Bourbonnais Grove’s first log schoolhouse.

Built with original wood from the 1800s and filled in with near-matching wood by PSI Construction, the schoolhouse is adorned with artifacts from back in the day. In addition to PSI, the Village of Bourbonnais’ public works assisted in the reconstruction.

Behind the schoolhouse is a structure that appears to be an outhouse, but is a system to keep the schoolhouse climate-controlled.

The building originally served as a schoolhouse for students until 1848 before becoming a home for FrenchCanadian families until 2010. For more than a decade, the Bourbonnais Grove Historical Society has been working to bring the structure back to its original roots to serve as a historical landmark and schoolhouse museum.

Manteno rises in recreation

One might say that the Village of Manteno is synonymous with nice parks. Manteno has continued to upgrade its parks with a focus on recreation.

“The Manteno Village Board has taken pride in our Parks and Recreation offerings,” said Joel Gesky, Parks and Recreation Committee Chairman. “We strive to be a leader in offering amenities for everyone. Our parks’ activity offerings are robust and diverse.”

The Square on Second Street serves as a central gathering place for recreation, relaxation and community connection. It offers a variety of amenities for all ages, including play structures such as the jumping pillow, zip line and rotating climber, as well as a fire pit area and a lighted water feature.

Lucille Thies Park recently completed an extensive improvement project. The new areas include more pickle ball courts, a wiffle ball field, bocce ball area, shuffleboard court, sand volleyball courts and bathrooms.

Heritage Park is one of the larger public parks in Manteno and boasts a walking path, a covered pavilion, picnic areas, lighted baseball fields, a concession building with restrooms and is home to several local athletic associations. The land was formally known as the Phipps Farm. On the west side of the park, visitors will find the dedication plaque in honor of the family.

For over 135 years, Aqua Illinois has been a proud community partner, providing clean, safe, and reliable water and wastewater services to residents, ensuring wellmaintained systems for generations to come.

Legacy Park offers a Splash Pad, a walking path, football/soccer field, softball field, a skate rink that can be used year round (roller blades or ice skates), and a picnic grove and gazebo.

This is just four of 14 parks located in the Village of Manteno.

“We see this as an opportunity to attract people to our town with hopes that they will fall in love with Manteno and Kankakee County,” Gesky continued. “It is our hope that they will choose to frequent our local businesses and maybe one day choose to call Manteno home as well.”

Development

County IS a world class community.

Kankakee Riverwalk finally breaks ground

Nearlyon determination, drive, and diligence. Here, industry, infrastructure, and aren’t just words they are the foundation of our progress. Kankakee County is a opportunity is abundant, collaboration is strong, and success

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

eight years after the Kankakee Riverwalk project was first announced – which faced protracted financing efforts, and environmental issues with endangered mussels and spawning river redhorse fish – long-overdue work finally began this summer on the first major component of the planned 4-mile riverwalk through much of Kankakee.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads the world.

Under the direction of general contractor PSI Inc. of Kankakee, crews descended on the location at the intersection of South Schuyler Avenue and East River Street to begin the $5 million project.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally

Led by The Currents of Kankakee, the project is an effort to reposition Kankakee as a premier Illinois riverfront community. When complete, the riverfront improvements will be the centerpiece of a transformed live/work/play city that attracts regional visitors, skilled workers and families with a package of exceptional river-centered natural, cultural and recreational attractions, complementary residential and commercial development, a more sustainable economy and a significantly improved ideology.

“This isn’t just for the city of Kankakee,” said Kankakee Mayor Chris Curtis. “These are things people look for when they buy a home, look for a job. What is there around here to do?”

recent years. With a highly-attended farmer’s market happening every Saturday from May to October, to new restaurants and retail popping up year after year, downtown Kankakee has become a busy spot. Decorated with various murals around the area, the downtown has a unique sense of vibrancy.

Schuyler Avenue is the main road connecting downtown Kankakee. In the last several years, more bike lanes have been added to the street, as well as bench swings with a trellis covering surrounded by plants and flowers.

foundation of this vibrant community is education Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

The riverwalk will be situated south of Kankakee’s downtown, which has seen a bevy of activity in

education, we are investing in people. An educated and upskilled workforce - including those demand trades - not only attracts businesses but also fuels innovation, collaboration, and personal This is how we create opportunities, how we build progress, and how we secure long-term Kankakee County.

The next addition set for Schuyler Avenue is a second location of the popular restaurant, New York City Deli. Set to open in the Standard Title building in the heart of downtown, the plan for the space also includes a lighted patio space for outdoor dining.

Bradley hits home run for recreation, tourism

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation for

The Village of Bradley recently invested $45 million in the Bradley Sports Complex, the 315 Sports Park, which encompasses 126 acres and includes 12 baseball/ softball diamonds among other amenities.

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed. class community.

This ushers in a new era in terms of youth sports and economic development, specifically for Bradley and generally for Kankakee County.

In an effort to capitalize on the revenue stream of youth

baseball, softball and soccer, Bradley, when all is said and done, will have invested some $47 million in constructing a youth sports complex unlike any other within Kankakee County or in any other complex in this entire region.

No expense has been spared.

Opening weekend, 50 teams representing travel baseball teams both local and from afar converged at 315 Sports Park, the nearly 127-acre, 12-fully-

turfed field complex immediately east of the Bradley Commons shopping center.

“It’s class,” Bradley Mayor Mike Watson said. “We set out to be the premier site. I want this to be the destination of choice.”

Bradley also has its sights set on an indoor water park that’s projected to open in 2027. The Bradley Village Board took another step in setting up financing for its proposed $81 million water park during a September board meeting.

Trustees approved moving forward with selling $51 million in bonds. In March, trustees approved the sale of about $29 million of bonds – payable over 20 years – to fund the 2-acre development, which will be located on the site of the Northfield Square mall.

In February, the village purchased the mall for $6.5 million. The mall is near Bradley’s retail and dining hub, and is set among a number of hotels.

If constructed as preliminary designs have illustrated, the water park would be in the top 20 largest in the

U.S., and the park could hold 1,700 people at once.

The park would be about 100,000 square feet when all areas are factored in, meaning some areas not for water use.

The project is the direction of American Resort Management LLC, of Erie, Pa., and engineering consultant Ramaker, of Sauk City, Wis.

Development

County IS a world class community.

AprojectPembroke on the upswing

Township as part of our service territory and construct the facilities necessary to provide natural gas service to the area.”

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

that began in 2022 with opposition and uncertainty now benefits nearly 130 residents and almost 10 commercial businesses. The Nicor Gas natural gas pipeline project, bringing 30 miles of service to Pembroke Township and Hopkins Park, is about 80% completed.

“People are elated to have the service,” said Village of Hopkins Park Mayor Mark Hodge. “They’re thankful for having options of electric and propane, but this is the most affordable energy option.”

By the time the project is at 100%, leadership is hopeful that the number of participating residences is somewhere between 150-180 with the number topping out at 200.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our the world.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

While unsure where the calendar will be when the project hits the 100% mark, Hodge and Nicor are both pleased with the progress.

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

He believes this “is going to change the tide for the Village of Hopkins Park and Pembroke Township” as more people move into the community. He shared that he often receives calls from prospective residents asking if the area has natural gas. He also noted, “This is going to be a catalyst to bring commercial businesses to the area.”

Hodge said, when this project came about, State Rep. Jackie Haas (R-Bourbonnais), State Sen. Patrick Joyce (D-Essex), Congresswoman Robin Kelly (D-Illinois) and Senator Dick Durbin (D-Illinois), “the moon and the stars aligned with these folks in office, and without their support, this project could not have happened.”

Jennifer Golz, media relations for Nicor, is on the same page with the mayor. The company and the village meet monthly to discuss project updates.

“We believe that every family deserves reliable energy service at a price they can afford,” said Golz. “It is a privilege to now include Hopkins Park and Pembroke

foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

Hodge also noted that Glade Plumbing & Heating, who is doing the after-meter service, is “doing an excellent job.” They install a brand-new pipe from the meter and to the house to each appliance that will be using natural gas. He mentioned that every home that is being given natural gas is being afforded a brand-new water heater installed free of charge.

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation for

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

class community.

President & CEO

Limestone celebrates park upgrade

On a steamy, 95-plus-degree-day, Limestone Park District board member Mark Messerle approached Hawkins Park.

The finishing touches on a $1.23 million upgrade had just been completed.

The only thing awaiting the full opening of the park along Tower Road was waiting for the concrete apron to the 127-space asphalt parking lot to fully cure.

As he approached a pair of fellow park board members, Messerle couldn’t pass up the moment. A joke was in order.

“I knew we forgot something,” Messerle said. “We forgot to add air conditioning.”

Board president and 23-year-board member Rose Gianotti wasn’t about to be outdone.

“This is OK under the pavilion,” she responded. “It’s not bad here.”

Seated around one of the four picnic tables under the pavilion’s roof, board members couldn’t hold back

the smiles they had looking out at the completed upgrade at the 14-acre park, which had been aided by a $500,000 state Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development grant.

The park board matched the $500,000 OSLAD grant with money it had saved during a span of several years and also two gifts to the project.

One gift being a $100,000 donation from an anonymous donor and the second, a $150,000 gift from area resident Alex Panozzo.

The rundown of upgrades: 127-space asphalt parking lot ($383,000); public restroom ($352,000); second playground at park ($293,000); two artificial playing surface bocce ball courts ($142,000).

recognize these Brands?

ABC Coating, Manteno

Fabricates steel rebar typically used in the construction of interstates and highways.

AHF Products, Kankakee

One of the world’s leading manufacturers of retail flooring products, AHF Products creates tiles in various shapes and colors.

Crown, Bradley Makes aluminum beverage cans, including for BrickStone Brewery. More than 5 million cans are produced at the facility daily — more than a billion a year.

Gotion The advanced manufacturing facility has a focus on renewable energy, producing energy storage systems (ESS) used at solar and wind farms and large employers. The company also builds electric vehicle batteries used in namebrand vehicles, as well as small-scale and mobile charging units for vehicles or private use.

CSL Behring, Bradley Pharmaceutical production plant specializes in production of plasma fractionation, used to treat serious and rare medical conditions such as bleeding disorders, tissue swelling and inherited respiratory diseases. Several recent multimillion-dollar expansions.

Spikeball Inc., Kankakee

IKO Midwest, Kankakee

Family-owned company makes shingles for roof installation and also provides insulation and waterproofing solutions worldwide.

FutureCeuticals, Momence Makes fruit and vegetable products in the form of extracts, supplements and powders. Recently expanded headquarters.

BrickStone Brewery, Bourbonnais

Makes a dozen varieties of craft beer, from IPAs to APAs to pale ales and more.

R.S. Cryo Equipment, Manteno

Makes cryogenic freezers (up to -238 degrees Fahrenheit). These freezers are used in food storage and also have unique and important purposes such as housing life-saving medicine.

Developed by a Kankakee native, Spikeball is one of the fastest-growing, fully portable outdoor games in the country. It takes the best elements of 2-on-2 volleyball and condenses it into a new, face-paced, boundary-line-free sport.

Rise Baking, Manteno

Making a variety of baked goods including artisan breads, bars, cookies, cakes and more. They provide baked goods to national food and retail chains.

Del Monte Fresh Produce, Kankakee

Receives truckloads daily of fresh fruit and packages them for sale at retail grocery outlets. Some products are private labeled and some are Del Monte labeled and shipped from the Kankakee plant to national food and retail chains.

LN Engineering, Momence

Manufactures high-end aftermarket parts for Porsche vehicles.

High Performance Lubricants, Manteno

Produces a variety of oils, including motor oil purchased and used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, lubricants for industrial equipment and cooking oil.

Urban Farmer, Manteno

Plochman’s Mustard, Manteno

Makes more than a dozen varieties of world-famous mustard and also makes salad dressing.

Was the first company in the frozen pizza industry to offer a gluten-free alternative.

Our Home Specializes in making flavorful, delicious snacks for every occasion. Brands include Pop Chips, From the Ground Up and Pop Secret.

Van Drunen Farms, Momence

One of the largest growers, manufactures and suppliers of freeze-dried, drum-dried, IQF and other frozen specialty products in the country. Among their many products are the dried strawberries in name-brand cereals.

Valspar Corp., Kankakee

The wholly-owned subsidiary of The Sherwin-Williams Company, founded in 1866, the Kankakee plant manufactures and distributes paints, coatings and related products for sale across the country.

Nucor Corp., Bourbonnais Largest steel recycler in the country, manufacturing rebar, merchant bar quality angles, flats and channel steel. Nucor Steel was used in Trump International Hotel & Tower in Chicago.

Stor-Loc, Kankakee

Produces tool cabinets and has a contract with the federal government. Has a unique patent for “StorFrame” product.

Arctic Snow & Ice Products, Bradley

Greif, Bradley

A leading supplier of industrial packaging products and services.

A leading manufacturer of innovative pushers, plows, and other products.

Pactiv Evergreen With operations in both Manteno and Grant Park, Pactiv Evergreen is an essential industry producing plastic containers used in food distribution such as cookie and cake trays and soup containers. The Grant Park location produces 2 million pounds of plastic product each month, with 90% of their raw materials coming from Pactiv’s Manteno site.

EDUCATION DRIVES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EDUCATION FOCUS ON

From college to certifications, Kankakee County offers robust education opportunities

Economic development is spurred by access to education. This is something that has driven Kankakee County for generations.

Kankakee County not only houses a university and community college, but a career center and primary schooling that offers options beyond the classroom. With constantly evolving programs and upgrades to facilities and technologies, there is no limit to what students in the region can accomplish.

Angela Morrey, President & CEO with the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County, said that whether it’s a basic understanding of the industries in Kankakee County’s community, a professional license or certificate, or an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, these are the foundational steps that help individuals — and the community — move forward.

“By investing in education and upskilling our workforce, we create opportunities for personal growth, which turns into progress,” Morrey said. “As we strengthen not only the skills but also the local knowledge of our labor force here in Kankakee County, we build a stronger, more connected, and more resilient economy. The more we learn, the more we grow—together.”

Dr. Michael Boyd, President of Kankakee Community College, agrees with Morrey’s comments and knows that workforce talent drives much of the strong, connected, resilient economy.

“Local businesses, industries, and service providers simply couldn’t exist without the talent that drives operations,” Boyd said. “And this talent emerges from our local education system.”

For Matt Vosberg, Superintendent of BradleyBourbonnais Community High School District, there are two drivers of economic development and education. First, workforce development is “imperative” for the region to have “a thriving economic climate.”

“When our students graduate, they need to be college-, career- and work-ready,” Vosberg said.

Second, Vosberg said, “great schools sell houses.”

“We were recently rated one of the best high schools in America by U.S. News & World Report. We believe these rankings will help families moving to our community seek out homes in our district.”

According to Kankakee Area Career Center Executive Director Matthew Kelley, having options in education – including a rising trend of more students opting to go into a trade or for a certificate instead of college –reflects a broader recognition of the need for education systems to adapt to the changing economic landscape.

“By focusing on practical skills, industry relevance,

and flexible learning options, education is becoming more aligned with the demands of the modern workforce, ultimately supporting economic development,” Kelley said.

Let’s take a closer look at the educational opportunities in Kankakee County.

Kankakee Community College ignites and inspires

“Enhancing quality of life through learning” is Kankakee Community College’s mission. This means KCC prepares students to transfer to four-year colleges and to enter the workforce. Further, it means the college enriches the lives of community members through short-term and continuing education classes, certification training and free programs such as literacy, GED preparation and English as a Second Language.

“What distinguishes KCC in Kankakee County is our focus on listening to and responding to the needs of local employers,” said Boyd. “Faculty and staff at the college are in constant communication with community leaders, and this helps us learn about opportunities for our students. By aligning our programming closely to those opportunities, KCC graduates are well-prepared to enter their career field and make an impact immediately.”

Here’s a look at some of the programs and highlights of KCC:

KCC offers courses in renewable energy, and was the first community college to receive the Interstate Renewable Energy Council Clean Energy Training Provider of the Year Award. It is the only solar-PV training program in Illinois and one of only three in the 18-state region accredited by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC).

KCC is a member of the Midwest Solar Training Network. KCC is an approved training provider by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners ® (NABCEP ®).

“KCC prepared me for actually all the jobs that I’ve had in the renewable field,” said Devin Goad, former KCC student and current service electrician for Sunrun.

County IS a world class community.

“[KCC] allowed me to get hands-on experience in their classrooms that actually followed into the field.”

for student success and economic growth.”

In an effort to make higher education more accessible, many students can now attend Kankakee Community College for free because of almost $17.4 million in grants awarded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity along with the Illinois Community College Board.

KCC is accepting applications for assistance with tuition, fees, books and supplies.

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

Qualified students will be able to complete their programs for free thanks to available grant and scholarship funding.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our the world.

These funds cover tuition, fees, books, supplies and other educational and wraparound supports for students.

The money does not have to be repaid. Many of the grants are not income-based.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

In addition to free tuition, KCC is using the funds to enhance its workforce training programs and facilities, ensuring students are prepared for high-demand careers.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

“Financial concerns can make college seem out of reach,” Meredith Purcell, Vice President for Student Affairs, said. “We want students to know that there are resources available to help. Our goal is to ensure every eligible student gets the support they need to succeed.”

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

“This investment is not just about education – it’s about building a skilled workforce that meets the needs of today’s employers,” said Boyd. “The future of work is evolving, and we are making sure students are prepared. By eliminating financial obstacles and strengthening career training, we’re creating pathways

Programs eligible for funding include: automotive technology; diesel mechanics; electrical engineering technology/renewable energy; health careers; information technology; manufacturing technology; welding technology.

foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

Olivet Nazarene University engineering success

Academics and service are of equal importance within Olivet Nazarene University’s engineering program, which continues to grow and evolve. Olivet

Kankakee County

is accredited through the organization ABET, which means it can offer students six distinct concentrations: civil, architectural, mechanical, electrical, computer and chemical.

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation for

Olivet engineering students have taken part in a disparate array of senior design projects in recent years with impacts locally, nationally and globally through a collaborative effort with the National Council for the Examination of Engineers and Surveyors, or NCEES, which has resulted in the receipt of multiple awards in recent years.

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

class community.

Within the Chicagoland area, students have been involved in a building design project that has benefited WONU-FM, 89.7, the university’s radio station that is known as “Shine FM.” Engineering students in recent years also have also traveled to Guatemala to install an automated fish feeder for farmers in the country.

“One of our focuses has been these missions projects,” Quentin S. Ragan, Olivet’s Associate Professor and Engineering Department Chair, said. “Being a non-profit, Christian institution, we turn more attention toward trying to service the community and the world around us.”

Olivet’s service-minded approach to community also is taking root within Chicago. Engineering students built a tiny home to help assist the city’s homeless population. That particular project is ongoing.

“This year’s research will be temperature differentials in the tiny house during the winter months,” Ragan said. “There’s no electricity in these small buildings for homeless folks. They have to be mobile because they are not tied to local building codes.”

After an intermittent dip in enrollment during the pandemic, Ragan said Olivet’s engineering student population is back on the upswing. This year, the university is reporting a 10% enrollment increase in the program.

Olivet also continues to add faculty into the engineering program, as evidenced by the addition of Bob Champlin to the faculty. He retired this spring from Lockport Township High School and immediately afterward brought his expertise to the university.

“He’s been a great addition, a great asset,” Ragan said. “He’s very enthusiastic about the students, their learning and well-being.”

County IS a world class community.

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads the world.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

Career Center goes beyond the classroom

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

Kankakee County has a unique and robust educational system that encompasses Pre-K to graduate school. At the epicenter of the system lies the Kankakee Area Career Center.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

Currently, there are 28 area vocational career centers in the state of Illinois, and the Kankakee Area Career Center is one of 12 that is free-standing, where students three times a day converge and engage with up-to-date curricula, state-of-the-art instructional equipment and highly skilled instructors. KACC serves 19 high schools from three counties - spanning 10,000 square miles.

When discussing how education relates to economic development, Kelley said it happens in various ways. He said that education increases human capital, it raises incomes, encourages innovation and technology, improves health and social outcomes, and attracts investment.

“Education is both a driver and a result of economic development,” Kelley said. “It equips individuals with skills to participate in the economy, fosters innovation and contributes to the overall well-being of societies — all of which are essential for sustained economic growth.”

foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

The Career Center is where the world of work meets the world of academics. It offers students Dual College Credit opportunities, industry certifications and workplace experience (internships/job shadowing) that are aligned with employers’ expectations.

Regional high school students who take advantage of offerings at/through the Kankakee Area Career Center are in a position to vie for entry-level employment utilizing their two-year experience at the Career Center.

Examining the last decade, Kelley said there has been a “noticeable” increase in students pursuing vocational education and training programs. He said the shift is largely driven by the demand for skilled labor in various industries, particularly in trades like construction, healthcare and technology. Many students are opting for shorter, more focused training programs that lead to certifications rather than traditional four-year degrees.

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation for

KACC also allows students to explore a variety of Career and Technical Education curricula.

“Students who take advantage of our regional CTE offerings have a two-year head start over their counterparts who elected not to engage in real-world, hands-on coursework,” said Kelley. “Students are able build upon their two-year CTE Diploma and Transcript that highlights the two-year experience within a Career Pathway that aligns with business and industry employment expectations.”

With this in mind, Pat Young, Business Representative IUOE Local 150 and President of Kankakee & Iroquois County Building Trades Council, gives this advice for those looking to go into a trade or union job.

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed. class community.

“You have to be available for work,” Young said. “And you have to work. Sometimes in our industry, the workday is longer than an eight-hour workday. Sometimes there’s work on the weekends.”

BBCHS expanding and accelerating

Thisyear, Bradley-Bourbonnais Community

High School has been working on its sixphase process of its planned $70 million facilities overhaul. This will expand one of the area’s most populous high schools, which Superintendent Vosberg said is “very unique as we have the course offerings in AP, electives, clubs, IHSA sports and activities of a large comprehensive high school, but the sense of community of a small school.”

“Many of our teachers are personally connected to the school as they may be alumni, current parents, former parents or future parents,” Vosberg said. “It’s very unique.”

He continued on to share that this year’s motto is, “We show up for each other,” as BBCHS believes this best represents its sense of community.

Included in the school’s expansion:

• A field house addition connected to the back of the main building

• 200-meter track, four basketball courts and other dedicated athletic spaces inside the addition

• Main circulation spine to alleviate foot traffic connecting the main building and the addition

• Dining commons area inside the addition with seating for about 400 on both floors (800+ total seating)

• A new elevator inside the addition, for a total of two elevators in the building

• A courtyard between the addition and the main building

• New main entry on North Street

• Expanded parking with about 100 additional spots

• Relocated tennis courts on the north end of campus

• STEM hub featuring five science labs in the repurposed North Gym space (increased from two labs)

• A math department located on the second story above the STEM hub

• Performing arts hub in repurposed East Gym space

• A library media center moving into the current weight room

• An observation deck above the pool connected through the East Gym

• A net of about 16 additional learning spaces.

The renovation will allow for more space for student activities, such as the robotics club who sent Leviathan, the 115-pound robot, to battle earlier this year.

In April, all the hard work, dedication and brainpower the BBCHS Ironclad Robotics team melded into its latest build was put to the test at the 2025 FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Championship in Houston, Texas.

The international competition pit Bradley-Bourbonnais against 600 of the best robotics teams from around the world.

It has been six years since Bradley-Bourbonnais made it to the FIRST competition.

The team was started 10 years ago by former math and computer science teacher Mark Hampton, who is now one of the team’s mentors in his retirement.

“It’s really impressive what the kids and the adults together have been able to accomplish,” Hampton said. “I’m probably even prouder of the network of sponsors, parents and alumni, that extended group that is all helping out behind the scenes.”

Other mentors include local STEM professionals, former robotics club students and their parents.

County IS a world class community.

Nick Thiesen, a mentor who was part of the high school’s first robotics team, now is a research and development engineer at Shoup Manufacturing in Kankakee.

Co-owner Jolene Boothe, of Bourbonnais, put it simply: “Everybody has an ability.”

A lot of the work he does daily, such as 3D modeling and product engineering, are skills he was exposed to through the robotics program.

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

Her son, Darren Boothe, is a student at BBCHS. The bakery’s namesake, Darren is involved in BB’s work program, which connects special education students with job opportunities.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our the world.

“It’s a program I think a lot more schools should have,” said Thiesen, a 2018 graduate. “Being part of the team that started it and seeing it continue to grow like it has, it’s a very good feeling.”

In recent years, there have been approximately 80 students in the work program. The issue? It’s difficult finding job opportunities for the dozens of students.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

Jolene said that BBCHS had to create jobs internally for students so that they would have something to do. This varied from shredding papers to cleaning the auditorium.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

A popular organization at BBCHS is the BBCHS Best Buddies Chapter, which is one of the largest in the state. Best Buddies is an organization that focuses on inclusion and acceptance of all individuals. Best Buddies pairs students with disabilities with their peers to create meaningful friendships and memories. The program offers a variety of activities throughout the year, including a talent show, Best Buddies Prom, movie nights, bowling parties and more.

“I encourage businesses to take one [work program employee],” she said. “It’s giving job opportunities to everybody because everyone is capable of something.”

Also unique to BBCHS is its offering of an Incubator EDU program in partnership with Uncharted Learning as part of its Career and Technical Education (CTE) department to provide students with hands-on entrepreneurial experience. In the third year of the partnership, the average class size has 20-22 students.

foundation of this vibrant community is education Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

Heather Johnson, BBCHS’s INCubator teacher, said the program “provides students with a unique, hands-on opportunity to build a real business around a problem they are passionate about solving. Instead of learning from a textbook, student groups apply business concepts and foundations of entrepreneurship by creating, iterating and testing their own ideas.”

education, we are investing in people. An educated and upskilled workforce - including those not only attracts businesses but also fuels innovation, collaboration, and personal This is how we create , how we build progress, and how we secure long-term Kankakee County

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation for

Many students involved with Best Buddies are also involved with the local bakery business, Sweet Darren’s, which, at its base, exists to provide tasty baked goods to the community.

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed. class community.

But at its heart, Sweet Darren’s exists to provide job opportunities for individuals with special needs.

“They work in teams to develop an entrepreneurial mindset - problem solving, taking risks, responding to feedback, creating pitch presentations and thinking creatively - all skills that extend far beyond the classroom,” said Johnson. “A key element of the program is the involvement of community members, who serve as mentors and industry experts. This not only enriches the students’ learning experience, but also helps them recognize their potential as contributors to the local community and economy.”

A field of opportunities for KHS’s growth

Albert Brass, Kankakee High School’s principal for the past three years, has been embarking on a series of goals, with long-term student success at the heart of the visioning underway.

The foundation for the goals, Brass said, is borne through specific numeric benchmarks that have demonstrated strides in recent school years.

The high school’s graduation rate, for instance, stood at 71% in May 2023 and inched upward toward 78% one year later. At the close of the 2024-25 school year, 85% of Kankakee High School’s seniors graduated. This spring, Brass said he is hoping 90% of students graduate.

Similar upward statistics have been reported in other metrics, including the rate of freshmen on track upon entering high school. The number has grown from 61% to 79% in the same three-year time frame, and the desire is to attain 85% in that category this spring.

“We’ve been focusing on high expectations,” Brass said. “We truly want our students to understand the impact of their grades and life after high school.”

From his vantage point, Brass said having in place a series of clearly defined expectations is helping pave the way for student success.

“Clarity is the antidote for anxiety,” he said. “There is a full picture of what it means to be successful. There are no secrets.”

Teresa Lance, Superintendent of Kankakee School District 111, said she has been emphasizing clearer pathways for all high schoolers as they prepare for post-graduation life, whether the plans entail higher education, the military or entering the workforce.

“We’ve set our students up to have options,” Lance said. “When you don’t do a good job in that area, you pigeonhole them into low-wage, low-demand jobs.”

Lance, who has a background as a physical education instructor, said she also is promoting the virtues of athletics and other after-school activities to help plug students of all ages into their specific school.

“The more our children are involved in extra-curricular activities, the greater the chances are for them to succeed in high school,” Lance said.

The options for extra-curricular activities at KHS has expanded with the addition of its new fieldhouse and community center.

As it enters its second year in operation, officials in KSD 111 have high hopes for the new community center and fieldhouse, which are designed to showcase the possibilities of the new amenity.

In its brief existence, the new fieldhouse has already been host to a number of school-specific and broader athletic activities. The venue is home to a 200-meter indoor track, four different sports courts and spaces for high jump, pole vault and long jump.

County IS a world class community.

The facility also encompasses what was the original auxiliary gym and is now nearly 50 yards of indoor turf and training space that can be used for multiple purposes. An athletic training room, athletic offices and a community room are among some the additional features within the facility.

“Now that we’re after that first year, and we’re getting the kinks worked out, we’re finding more and more opportunities to use it,” Wilcox said.

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

Construction on the fieldhouse and community center began after KSD 111 officials decided to allocate some of the federal pandemic-era funds toward the new project.

Superintendent Lance said the desire is to have local groups outside the school have access to the facility as well.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our the world.

“We’re going to try and expand it so other organizations can have access to it,” Lance said in explaining her vision for the facility.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

The district in October also unveiled its outdoor fitness studio to further the commitment toward community access.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

“The idea was to do what we called a legacy spend, where we could put some funds toward something that would benefit the school district and also have some benefits to the community,” Ronnie Wilcox, Kankakee High School Athletic Director, said.

The community has been able to use the track in the morning and evening hours, before and after school activities, and further offerings within the indoor facility could eventually be available as well.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

“There’s no lock and key,” Lance said. “Anyone can use it. There’s no door outside, and it will be accessible and located right next to the community center. It is something else for our community members to take advantage of.”

foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K 12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

education, we are investing in people. An educated and upskilled workforce not only attracts businesses but also fuels innovation, collaboration, and personal

This is how we create , how we build progress, and how we secure long Kankakee County

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

class community.

President & CEO

Bishop McNamara holds past, present, and future

Datingback to 1922, Bishop McNamara Catholic School prides itself in having over 100 years of Irish tradition under its belt.

Approximately 800 students make up the student body spread across three unique campuses for learning. The school system features 15 different clubs and student organizations, 30 athletic teams competing and over 90% of students participate in an extracurricular activity.

Recently, the high school in Kankakee unveiled the Rich Zinanni Athletic Complex, named for the school’s former football coach Rich Zinanni, the five-time state champion and 378-game winner.

The school named the stadium after him in 2019 before his retirement following the 2021 season.

The new stadium stands in the exact location of the one Zinanni first fell in love with and later became a legend of the sport at. Visually, the bricks are less gray and more neutral, but aside from that, it can be best described as a modern twist on a classic Kankakee landmark.

“It’s as good as you can get,” Zinanni said of the new facilities that bear his name. “I’ll put it against any of them. We did it ourselves, and I’m so proud of that.”

By “ourselves,” Zinanni meant the McNamara community that came together to raise over $4.5 million for the school’s capital campaign that coincided with its 100th anniversary during the 2022-23 school year.

The stadium was the final part of a school-wide facelift that included a new chapel, a student success center and a new chemistry lab.

Bright Architecture, PSI Construction and Piggush Engineering oversaw the creation of it, along with dozens of parents and alumni who donated plenty of their time toward the eight-month construction.

Bishop McNamara President/Principal Kaelyn Bess said that the process of putting the complex together was a perfect example of the school’s values in action.

“This is where McNamara truly shines,” Bess said. “The people love this place as if it was their own and they’ve made this an extension of their family.”

County IS a world class community.

CEO program welcomes new entrepreneur cohort

Anothercommunity continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

national CEO program through Midland Institute for Entrepreneurship — hosts networking events and gives participating students from various area high schools a shot at their own “Shark Tank”-esque competition.

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our the world.

space in the region where education merges with economic development is in the form of Kankakee County CEO. The program — which is not only dedicated to the future of Kankakee County, but is dedicated to helping the next generation have a future in the county — began with a steering committee in 2021 and had its first class of future CEOs in the 202324 school year.

This year’s cohort includes six students who spend 90 minutes of each school day on real-world learning.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

“We meet each day in local business conference rooms to work on class business projects, learn from guest speakers, and tour numerous area businesses,” said Bretzlaff.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

Kankakee County CEO established in the fall of 2023, with the support of local business community partners and area schools to create experiential learning opportunities for students. More than a business course, CEO allows students to learn from local business leaders and develop workforce skills of problem solving, team work, self-motivation, responsibility, communication and professionalism are the heart of a student’s development throughout the experience.

Each student is paired with a local mentor, and the group gets to hear from 30-40 speakers and tour 30 businesses annually.

Now in its third year, the program continues its mission of introducing business-minded high schoolers to local businesses. Led by facilitator Katie Bretzlaff, the program — which is a chapter in a

foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

So far this year, students have visited Converging Networks Group, Spikeball and Eric Penrod Photography among other businesses. Kankakee County CEO is one of 75 programs in 10 states with 350 participating high schools.

education, we are investing in people. An educated and upskilled workforce demand trades not only attracts businesses but also fuels innovation, collaboration, and personal This is how we create , how we build progress, and how we secure long Kankakee County

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today,

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed.

class community.

Gotion in motion with KCC, ONU

KankakeeCommunity College often partners with Gotion Illinois, a global manufacturer of clean energy storage solutions with a site in Manteno, on job fairs. While the fairs are a means for the company to meet soon-to-be graduates, they are often open to the community.

The initiative is part of Gotion’s commitment to building local talent pipelines while offering employment and training opportunities to residents.

adding to its local workforce as it has laid deeper roots within the Kankakee County region.

“These kinds of opportunities haven’t existed in this region for generations,” said Blake Stephens, Director of Recruitment at Gotion. “We’re creating a pathway in an emerging and critical national industry (power storage) that starts in high school, leads to college and ends with a career – without the burden of student loans.”

Over in Bourbonnais, Gotion is also working with Olivet Nazarene University.

While it is still in the early stages, leaders within the school are hoping a potential partnership with Gotion can further bolster the engineering program within the Martin D. Walker School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Quentin S. Ragan, Associate Professor and Department Chair with Olivet’s engineering program, and ONU President Gregg Chenoweth, toured the Gotion plant in September 2025, which sowed the seeds of a potential partnership between the two entities.

“There has been some tentative talk about how our students can partner with (Gotion) for internships and, possibly, also some full-time positions,” Ragan said.

While details are still being fleshed out, Ragan said he is optimistic about the possibilities on the horizon between the university and Gotion, which has been

“It’s still in the early phases. Fleshing out that partnership will take a little more time,” Ragan said as Olivet’s 2025-26 school year was getting underway. “I think it will eventually come to fruition.”

Olivet has a long history of forging partnerships with local companies and organizations across all of its curricular areas, Ragan said. While these ties provide the obvious built-in benefit of job possibilities for students, Ragan said there is another plausible reason to pursue these joint collaborations.

Speaking specifically to Olivet’s engineering program, Ragan said, “It does provide our students with an awareness of what is out there. Many students come to the engineering program, not knowing what they want to do within it.”

For many of the students enrolled in Olivet’s engineering program, Ragan said these relationships provide a deeper bridge toward understanding of the opportunities available in today’s manufacturing workforce.

“When we work tightly with these industrial manufacturing facilities, and they recruit our students, it opens the students’ eyes to what they can do with this type of degree,” Ragan said. “It’s about providing the students with a means to an engineering degree.”

KACC aviation program taking

County IS a world class community.

Flying an airplane is something many kids dream of, but for 17-year-old Marely Ramirez, the chance to turn that dream into a reality was too good to pass up.

“Aviation has always been in the air for me, creatively and literally,” the Kankakee High School student said.

allowed the program to be offered at the airport.

community continues to grow because of the unmatched advantages we offer:

Tim Edwards, a U.S. Army veteran, was recruited as an instructor.

“A lot of people are accommodating, and it took a lot of hands to make this happen for these kids,” Guerin said.

In-demand profession

LOCATION: Six interstate exits, more than 40,000 vehicles a day, and three Class 1 railroads connect our the world.

Ramirez is one of 23 students from eight local high schools who have joined the Kankakee Area Career Center’s newest career pathway, which is teaching them all about professions in aviation.

treatment – along with high-speed internet and dark ﬁber networks.

INFRASTRUCTURE: Ready-access utilities including abundant electric, natural gas, water and wastewater

Like many of her classmates, Ramirez aims to become a pilot.

Ratliff said aviation is one of the most in-demand career paths, with jobs ranging from pilot to air traffic controller, aircraft maintenance technician, or airport manager. Sign-on bonuses are common for certain roles because of the high demand.

INDUSTRY: Global, national, state and local companies with headquarters and branches located here.

Her drive stems from members of her family having aspirations to work in aviation.

“There’s hundreds retiring every year from individual companies that just can’t be replaced [fast enough],” he said.

WORKFORCE: A labor pool of 2.8 million within a 40-minute commute, complemented with seasonal and specialized training opportunities available locally.

“They unfortunately didn’t have the same opportunities that I have,” Ramirez said. “I just feel like I’m achieving this dream for everyone, and that’s what motivates me.”

Many of the pilots he works with had no idea when they were in high school that these careers were possible.

foundation of this vibrant community is education. Our schools, colleges, technical programs and workforce atives give residents the knowledge, skills, and adaptability to thrive in a rapidly changing economy. foundational learning in K-12 to earning a certiﬁcate or license in the trades, to pursuing an associate or degree, education opens doors to opportunity at every stage of life.

Aviation is the first entirely satellite program offered by the Career Center, meaning all lessons take place off-site.

Instead of meeting at the vocational school campus in Bourbonnais Township, students go where the planes are – the Greater Kankakee Airport.

Instructors are hoping to grow the program and get more students involved in the future.

“It was a pipe dream. You look at airplanes, you’re like, ‘Man, that’d be cool. I can’t do it,’” Ratliff said. “We’re bridging the gap of, ‘I can’t do it,’ and letting kids know that it’s easier than you think.”

Students learn about career options that can potentially lead them to earning six-figure salaries.

Getting off the ground

In July 2024, Career Center graduate Josh Karkos came forward with the idea to start an aviation program.

To participate in the Career Center course, a $300 fee is required for supplies and materials, but the return on investment for dedicated students is substantial.

Ratliff said the value of the instruction students will receive over the course of two years is more than $30,000.

to have a strong educational ecosystem that connects students, workers, and employers with the to succeed. We are not only preparing for the challenges of today, we are laying the foundation for

Karkos shared the idea with Career Center leadership and contacted Chris Ratliff, owner of D14 Aviation flight school.

“As part of the class, every student does get a lesson in the airplane,” Ratliff said. “They don’t have to continue to move forward with it, but they get the opportunity.”

County is more than a place to live and work. It is a place to learn, to grow, and to succeed. class community.

KACC Principal Tim Guerin and Director Matt Kelley pitched the idea to their school board, and after more research and preparation, the board approved the program for takeoff this school year.

It was a matter of the right pieces coming together.

Jeff Benoit, manager of the Greater Kankakee Airport,

The Career Center and D14 Aviation also plan on offering a scholarship worth more than $10,000 to a student who excels in the class each year. The scholarship will provide 45 flight hours with instruction.

The Federal Aviation Administration requires a minimum of 40 flight hours to obtain a private pilot’s license.