Jan Smith, an environmental activist from Carol Stream, says she has a passion for such causes because of her faith. "Part of my seeing God is in what God has created," she says. "What we do in my generation affects future generations."

Bev Horne | Staff Photographer

Jan Smith spends a lot of time in her garden outside her Carol Stream home, while also volunteering at a local park that bears her name. She spent 15 years as a part-time gardener for the park district.

Bev Horne | Staff Photographer

Jan Smith, right, and members of the Carol Stream chapter of the Cool Cities Coalition have supported local initiatives they say will help curb global warming.

Photo Courtesy Jan Smith

On behalf of the Cool Cities Coalition, Jan Smith encouraged a partnership between the Citizens Utility Board and village of Carol Stream to help residents save money on their electric bills. She was joined at a village board meeting by former Trustee Rick Gieser, Jim Chilsen of CUB and Village President Frank Saverino.

Photo Courtesy Jan Smith

Jan Smith says she's developed good relationships with local governmental officials and, as a result, Carol Stream was designated a "Cool City" for its pledge to support local efforts to reduce global warming. The village was recognized with an earth flag in 2007 at a county board meeting with then-county board Chairman Bob Schillerstrom, Village Manager Joe Breinig, Village President Frank Saverino, County Environmental Committee Chairman Jeff Redick, Assistant to the Village Manager Chris Oakley and Smith.

Photo Courtesy Jan Smith