Dear neighbor,

September is coming to an end, bringing with it the official start of autumn. As the leaves change and the days get cooler, take time to explore seasonal events and activities in our community and throughout the state.

This month is also National Preparedness Month, which is a good reminder to review your family’s plans in case of emergency.

As always, my office is available to help you access state resources, answer questions on legislation and more. Reach out to my Rock Island office at 309-558-3612, Galesburg office at 309-297-4483 or online at SenatorHalpin.com if you have any questions or need assistance.

Sincerely,

Mike Halpin

State Senator | 36th District

In the district

Labor Day Celebration

I had the honor of attending the 37th annual Mayors and Public Officials Labor Day Celebration Breakfast. It was a wonderful morning to talk with other local officials, and recognize the positive impact union trades and contractors have on our community.

Local schools to benefit from education career grants

Children deserve to learn in schools that have adequate resources to bolster their education. With this funding, we are not only enriching the lives of current students, but expanding opportunities for all youth. Read more here.

Over 8.8 million coming to local school districts thanks to evidence-based funding

Each school has diverse needs to best assist students with the proper support and resources. With the evidence-based funding formula, our students, teachers and districts will see the benefits of investing into their future and meeting these diverse needs. Read more here.

Rock Island County to see over $500,000 for workforce training

Continuing to support those who are seeking employment is important. The Job Training and Economic Development program will provide essential resources to our residents who have been struggling with employment opportunities. Read more here.

Resources

Seasonal employment opportunities

The Illinois Department of Transportation District 2 is taking applications for seasonal positions to help with snow and ice removal in Winnebago, Boone, Ogle, Rock Island, Henry, Whiteside, Lee, Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson counties. Applications close Monday, Sept. 30. To learn more, click here.

Empowering Futures Program

Are you interested in a career in mechanical maintenance at the nation’s largest producer of carbon-free energy? Look no further. HIRE360 and Constellation are partnering together to provide the Empowering Futures program, a paid, 9-week, virtual preparation course. Learn more here.

September is Suicide Prevention Month

Suicide prevention is important every day of the year, but National Suicide Prevention Month gives us an opportunity to shine a light on this difficult topic. Help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988 or sending a message at chat.988lifeline.org.

Submit your state flag design

Illinois is exploring redesigning the state flag, and your creativity is needed! The Illinois Flag Commission — created through legislation passed in 2023 — is accepting public submissions for a new state flag design. Submit your design by Oct. 18 and learn more on the Secretary of State’s website.

New: ICash website in Spanish

To assist Spanish-speaking Illinoisans with searching for unclaimed money and property, the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office launched a new ICash website in Spanish.

Consulta el sitio web en español del programa ICash aquí: es.icash.illinoistreasurer.gov.

IDFPR licensing process updates

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation launched several new initiatives to assist in the professional licensure process.

  • Online applications are now available for licensed social workers, clinical social workers, professional counselors and clinic professional counselors.
  • Active duty service members and their spouses can apply for licensure with reduced requirements.
  • To help individuals with the application process, virtual appointments with IDFPR representatives are offered on Wednesdays. Sign up early as spots fill quickly.

Grant opportunities

Funding available for water quality projects

The Illinois EPA is offering $5 million in grants for green infrastructure projects that will prevent, eliminate or reduce stormwater runoff, or help reduce flooding events throughout the state. Organizations should apply online by Nov. 20.

Applications open for Community Development Block Grants

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is offering $26 million in grants through the Community Development Block Grant program for public infrastructure and housing rehabilitation projects. Eligible applicants can apply for grants of up to $1 million for public infrastructure projects and up to $650,000 for housing rehabilitation projects. Applications will be accepted until Dec. 4. For more information, visit DCEO’s website.

DCEO will be hosting a workshop for CDBG applicants Oct. 1-2 in Springfield. View workshop information here.