St. Charles community defined by a family's contributions

When it comes to the institutions that define St. Charles as a community, there is, perhaps, no family to be more thankful for than the Norris-Collins-Baker brood.

The Norris Recreation Center, Norris Cultural Arts Center, St. Charles Country Club, Delnor Hospital, Baker Methodist Church, Hotel Baker, Rockwell Community Center and the city's municipal campus are all spawned in whole, or in part, from financial donations and spirited support provided by at least three generations of the family line. John Collins said the history of giving began with his grandparents, Dellora and Lester Norris, and it became almost a family duty for members of the family to continue giving back.

"My grandparents did a lot of great things," Collins said. "They gave a lot to the community, and they didn't really have to. But they wanted to make it a better place. We're pretty proud."

Collins himself is a lifelong St. Charles businessman who is deeply involved with the community. He is a co-founder of the Tri-City Health Partnership and a has served as a board member at Delnor Hospital, the Baker Community Center, St. Charles Parks Foundation, Harris Bank and the St. Charles Country Club. He personal contributions were recognized by the community in 2011 by naming him the recipient of the Charlemagne Award, which is the equivalent to a citizen of the year designation.

Collins said Thanksgiving is always a little sweeter when you can drive around town and truly feel like you've not only given to your community but received a lot back in return.

"It's been gratifying," Collins said. "It's always nice this time of year to sit back and reflect. I enjoy that."