Courtney & Sarah joined Big Jake's show to chat about a BUSY September for Cedarhurst. Make sure to visit cedarhurst.org to get full details on everything talked about in today's interview!

 

Executive Director Nat Shook joins Big Jake's show to discuss a new initiative by United Way of South Central Illinois designed to support teachers in enhancing or building their classroom libraries. Teachers can now request specific books they need for their students, ensuring every child has access to the educational resources necessary for a successful learning experience.

This program was inspired by our joint venture with the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce, where we discovered the significant need for books in classroom libraries. United Way Reads aims to fill this gap by providing essential educational materials to teachers.

How You Can Help:

Book Donations: Check our website and Facebook page for a list of requested books. If you have any of the listed books and wish to donate, please drop them off at:

📍 123 S 10th St., Suite 202, Mt. Vernon, IL.

Amazon Wish List: Prefer to purchase books online? Visit our Amazon Wish List for a complete list of requested books. Your purchase will be sent directly to our office, ready to be distributed to teachers in need.

Teachers: You can apply for books directly on our website or by clicking the following link: https://forms.gle/mmNb3inTWR2RPFaZ8.

By supporting United Way Reads, you are directly contributing to the educational success and future of our community’s youth. Together, we can ensure that every child has the resources they need to thrive. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to making a difference!

 
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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)

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

ď§­ 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.

ď“… 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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The Legendary Trace Adkins joins Big Jake's show to chat about his new song, “What Color’s Your Wild” which is out now. Official music video premiered on CMT and Trace performed on the TODAY show. Adkins has been out on the road with Blake Shelton for the Friends & Heroes tour, then kicking off his own headlining What Color’s Your Wild tour with the Wolfe Cattle Company/Cord McCoy Extreme Bull Bash show on Saturday, 3/29 in Du Quoin at the Southern Illinois Center! Trace is also appearing at the Opry 100 celebration, airing Wednesday night on NBC. He makes mention of his cameo in the movie, Day of Reckoning which releases in theaters next Friday, 3/28. Get your tickets to see Trace Adkins in Du Quoin at wolfecattlecompany.com or listen to 94.1FM, WMIX for more chances to win!

 
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