SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — To better inform policymakers on the root causes of poverty and economic insecurity in northwest Illinois, CEO Michelle DeHaven Quast of The Foundation for Northwest Illinois has been appointed to the Governor’s Commission on Poverty and Economic Stability by Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie.

The Commission is made up of 25 members: four members of the State General Assembly; one member of the judiciary; and twenty public leaders who represent key constituencies that are impacted by poverty. The commission was created to address root causes of economic insecurity, racial disparities, and other contributing social, economic, and cultural factors.

“The overall purpose of the Illinois Commission on Poverty Elimination and Economic Security is not unlike the goals and interests of The Foundation for Northwest Illinois,” stated Michelle DeHaven Quast. “We believe in working with all of our community partners to develop long-term strategies that address the root causes of economic insecurity and a wide range of inequities, all toward making our communities stronger and healthier. It is an honor to be appointed by House Minority Leader Tony McCombie to represent northwest Illinois and participate in the important work of this commission.”

Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie is pleased to appoint Michelle DeHaven Quast to the Governor’s Commission on Poverty and Economic Stability. “Michelle has proven her dedication to enhancing the lives of those in need through her 30 years of experience serving in non-profits,” said Leader McCombie. “She is a changemaker, and her drive will help make an impactful difference in assessing and addressing the issue of poverty in Illinois.”

To learn more about this Illinois Commission on Poverty Elimination and Economic Security, the Five-Year Strategy to Reduce Deep and Persistent Poverty is available online.