On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the Champaign County Community Coalition held its monthly meeting. The Coalition was excited to host a special panel discussion focused on the critical issues of Civility, Compassion, Climate Change, and Violent Crime. The panel, comprised of Urbana Police Chief Larry Boone, Champaign Police Chief Timothy Tyler, TRI Director Karen Simms, and Community Relations Manager Jorge Elvir, was asked for their take on community needs, how to build bridges, and what to do to bring about community collaboration. Collective response highlighted the need for holistic support services that addressed both kids and families, as well as a major need for reduced work in silos and increased knowledge and resource sharing across the county. Lastly, there was a collective call to action to get involved, emphasizing that change happens when everyone is involved and invested in making it happen.
The second part of the meeting focused on sharing information about major programs in the works.
- News, Brews, and Beatz is coming back and better than ever, so be on the lookout for that.
- High school students nationwide participate in ACT-SO, a year-long program where they develop projects and performances in various fields with community volunteers; this culminates in local and national competitions offering scholarships and rewards.
- Women In Need (WIN) Recovery presented about their amazing program and services that provide life-changing support for women in the community, and two members shared their inspiring journeys of recovery and success.
- The Black Mental Health and Wellness Conference will be back this October 20, 2025, and registration will begin soon.
- The Champaign Neighborhood Networking Conference is right around the corner on May 9th; registration is filling up!
- Members from Copper Creek Church shared information about some awesome upcoming tours to experience the African American Heritage Trail like never before; sign up here!