FREEPORT—The Greater Freeport Partnership is pleased to receive honors from the Illinois Main Street Lieutenant Governor Awards for Organizational Approach, Promotion, Economic Vitality, Volunteer of the Year, and Volunteer Recognition at this year’s conference in Batavia.
The Pretzel Pickers won the award for Volunteer Recognition for their efforts to gather weekly and pick-up litter throughout the City of Freeport. Tim Connors received the award for Volunteer of the Year for his work uplifting the community through events and promotional activities.
The Greater Freeport Partnership’s approach to Main Street initiatives was honored for their work to address issues from all four key points of the Main Street model: economic vitality, promotion, organizational structure, and design.
In addition, specific campaigns and activities organized by the Partnership received awards for their impact on business and business owners. The Rediscover Your Downtown campaign was awarded for Promotional Approach, inviting residents and visitors to return to downtown stores and restaurants after the completion of the Chicago Avenue Streetscape. The BASE Camp program was recognized for Economic Vitality for its success in encouraging and supporting small business and entrepreneur development.
The Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Revitalization is one of the most notable recognitions for Illinois Main Street communities to achieve for their work in bringing economic prosperity to their communities. Work highlights projects, activities, and events focused on the Main Street Approach™, as well as outstanding volunteers and board members.
“Main Streets across our state showcase the best of small businesses and efforts to revitalize downtowns,” Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton said.
On Wednesday, Nov. 13, Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton awarded all achievements alongside Illinois Main Street Director Erik Reader, Main Street Manager of Entrepreneur and Small Business Support Tasha Sams, and Main Street Sr. Program Officer for Economic Vitality Joi Cuartero Austin.
“As an Illinois Main Street community, we work diligently to align our efforts to make the greatest impact for our downtown business owners and partners. The excellent efforts by volunteers, community groups, and municipal partners continue to make downtown Freeport a great place to spend time and we are honored to receive recognition of key programs,” Partnership Executive Director Andrea Schultz Winter said.
The Greater Freeport Partnership is a catalyst for dynamic economic growth fostering an inclusive environment where businesses thrive, and the community prospers. They are dedicated to nurturing new opportunities while enriching the fabric of Freeport and Stephenson County.
Learn more about Illinois Main Street and view a full list of award winners at ilmainstreet.org.
