Caritas Family Solutions

  • Posted: June 3, 2025 @ 11:36 am

Allison Heater, Family Finding & Recruitment Supervisor with Caritas Family Solutions joins the show to discuss the changes in Foster Care, the number of children locally in care or looking for a stable home environment, respite care, and so much more. caritasfamilysolutions.org or call 618-956-9207 to get more details.

 

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United We Stand: A Weekend of Unity, Culture, and Community Connection

Mark your calendars for August 8th and 9th as United Way of South Central Illinois proudly presents United We Stand, a two-day celebration dedicated to embracing diversity, building bridges of understanding, and strengthening the bonds that tie our community together.

Friday, August 8 – United We Stand

A Meal with Meaning

(Centralia)

Free tickets are now available! Click here to reserve your spot

Begin the weekend with a moving community gathering at the United We Stand Dinner in Centralia.

 Featured Speakers:

  • Alex Kor, son of Holocaust survivors Mickey and Eva Kor, will share his family’s powerful story and speak about compassion, remembrance, and the importance of standing united in the face of injustice.

  • Dr. Linda & Carl Flowers, respected community leaders and educators, will offer insight on the importance of connection, understanding, and resilience in building a stronger Southern Illinois.

 Dinner Provided By:

Chammies Food for the Soul — enjoy a delicious soul-filled meal that nourishes both body and spirit.

 This event is free and open to the public, but seating is limited - ticket required - click here for ticket.

Saturday, August 9 – United We Stand Cultural Festival (Mt. Vernon)

The celebration continues Saturday at the brand-new Commons Park in Mt. Vernon with a full day of global flavors, local artists, music, and cultural exploration.

 Speaker: Alex Kor

Alex will speak with a heartfelt message about healing, resilience, and the power of shared history.

 Featured Artists:

  • Brandy Mount

  • Cortez Hodges

  • Robbie Edwards

  • Janis Steury

  • Vanessa Thomas

 Live Entertainment:

  • Performances by Center Stage

  • Local talents throughout the day.

 Food Vendors:

  • Chammies Food for The Soul – Southern cuisine

  • Joe's Pizza – Local favorite

  • Jee Family – Representing Canada

  • Papa Knocks – Comfort food & soul favorites

  • Crazy Asian Eats – Asian fusion flavors

吝 Family Fun:

A fun and educational way to explore the world!

 Free and open to the public — bring the whole family!

Why It Matters

In a time when connection matters more than ever, United We Stand is an opportunity to share stories, build bridges, and create lasting memories with neighbors near and far. Let’s come together to celebrate who we are — and who we can become — side by side.

 Save the Dates:

  • Friday, August 8 – United We Stand Dinner (Centralia)

  • Saturday, August 9 – United We Stand Cultural Festival (Mt. Vernon Commons)

 
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Executive Director with United Way of South Central Illinois Natalie Shook joins Big Jake to chat about their upcoming Cheeseburger In Paradise themed Annual Dinner on April 19th. Limited tickets are still available and every guest will get a surprise gift valued at $300! Learn more on their Facebook page, by visiting uwsci.org, or check out this interview from WMIX.

 
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Executive Director of the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, Jamie Storey, joins Big Jake for a chat about this weekend's 11th Annual Home & Outdoor Expo in Mt. Vernon at the Times Square Mall. Get a head start on those home improvement projects by coming to the Times Square Mall in Mt. Vernon on Friday, February 23rd (5-8p) and Saturday, the 24th (9a-5p) for incredible, first-hand access to industry experts. Over 50 vendors will be showcasing all things home and outdoor! Real Estate & Financing, Insurance, Recreation, plus a new area this year showcasing young entrepreneurs and their unique businesses. Whether you're remodeling, under construction, looking for better pest control, need new furniture, some outdoor maintenance or new gardening and landscaping. Visit southernillinois.com for more info. See you at the Expo!

 
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