PARK FOREST – To honor the impact older adults have made to their community, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is encouraging residents to submit their nominations to the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame.

“This is a chance to thank those that work to make our community a better place,” Joyce said. “If you know an older adult who has made and continues to make a lasting impact in the community, I encourage you to nominate them.”

The Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame celebrates outstanding accomplishments in community service, education, the labor force and the arts. Each year, four candidates—one from each category—are inducted.

Eligibility is based on an individual’s past and present accomplishments, and the candidate must be a current Illinois citizen or a former citizen for most of their life. Posthumous nominees are also considered.

Since its creation in 1994, 121 people have been inducted into the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame.

“Our older friends and loved ones make contributions to our society every day,” Joyce said. “You can acknowledge their contributions and show your support by nominating them to the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame.”

The Illinois Department on Aging has extended the submission deadline through Monday, Aug. 31. Nominations may be submitted online or by calling the Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966.