Mundelein wins 15th Home Town Award

Ending a three-year drought for the village, a Mundelein program that aims to give kids positive social outlets and role models has won a prominent state award, officials announced.

The Mundelein After School Coalition has been tapped for a Governor's Home Town Award, which recognizes diverse volunteer efforts across the state.

It's the 15th Home Town Award for a Mundelein program since 1995. It last won the prize in 2003.

Mundelein Mayor Kenneth H. Kessler said he was proud of the organizers and volunteers who've worked with the coalition.

"One of the things that's unique about Mundelein is its hometown feel and sense of community," Kessler said. "And I think that people consistently coming together for programs like this speaks to that."

Formed in 2004, the after-school coalition spun off from a countywide group founded by Mundelein Police Chief Raymond J. Rose, state Rep. Kathy Ryg and other community leaders.

Focusing on sixth- through eighth-graders in four elementary school districts and a local parochial school, it designs and organizes after-school activities, dances, character-building sessions and other events.

Representatives from the after-school coalition will receive the award at a Nov. 27 banquet in Springfield. The group will learn if it won first place in its category or another prize at that time.

All of the winners will receive commemorative plaques and road signs, and one project will be honored with a special Governor's Cup.