Elgin Police Department honored with Marklund Community Partner Award

The Elgin Police Department recently received a Community Partner Award from Marklund, for the many ways the department’s members have volunteered and supported the nonprofit and its residents.

Founded in 1954, Marklund services children and adults with severe and profound developmental disabilities at it residential and educational facilities in Elgin, Geneva and Bloomingdale.

From their participation in Marklund’s annual Giving Tree — bringing joy and generosity during the holiday season — to their frequent visits to Marklund Day School classrooms, the Elgin Police Department staff have made an impact through education, engagement and genuine care.

They provided opportunities for Marklund’s residents and students to learn, connect, and feel valued.

As stated during the award presentation at the recent Volunteer Appreciation Brunch, “What makes this partnership so special is not just what they do — but how they do it. With kindness, patience, and a sincere commitment to inclusion, they have become more than a partner — they have become friends, role models and champions for the individuals we serve.”

Held at Riverside Banquets in Geneva, the annual recognition event brings together volunteers, staff, residents, family members, and friends from all Marklund facilities.

Other 2025 Volunteer Awards presented at the event included:

• Volunteer of the Year: Bette Klein of Wheaton

• Group of the Year: Northwestern Medicine’s Team NM

• Future Changemakers Award: Dweny and Diya Geeth of South Elgin

• Special Event Volunteer: Karyn Racutt of South Elgin

• Most Volunteer Hours: Evan Clark of Geneva

In 2025, individual and volunteer groups contributed more than 15,000 volunteer hours to Marklund.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities at Marklund, visit marklund.org/volunteer.