MARCH 2026 13 directories for visitors, coordi- nate marketing efforts, engage volunteers, and ensure member businesses are prepared to capitalize on increased traffic. Transformative events leave be- hind more than memories: they leave behind improved infrastructure, stronger partnerships, and enhanced reputation. If we organize with in- tention and coordinate cross-sector partnerships, America’s 250th won’t just celebrate Illinois’ past, it will accelerate our future. HOW CHAMBERS CAN GET INVOLVED Get connected Become an official Illinois America 250 Community or Partner. You’ll gain access to planning calls, co- ordination support, and statewide visibility. Align with local government Encourage cities, villages, and towns to pass resolutions or adopt procla- mations supporting the semiquincen- tennial. This builds civic momentum and formalizes local engagement. Submit and promote events Use the IL250.org calendar to list chamber-sponsored programs, work- shops, public talks, and networking events tied to the anniversary to build enthusiasm and visibility. Tie anniversary resources to member benefits Use downloadable flyers, educational content, and passport promotions to boost member participation in heritage tourism and community service efforts. IL250.org provides downloadable toolkits, logos, and promotional materials that chambers can use immediately to promote local events and enhance communications. Plug into IL America 250 programs • Promote the IL America 250 - Passport to Illinois and highlight sites in your region. • Celebrate volunteers by being an active participant of Illinois: United in Service. • Capture members’ stories as part of IL Voices 250. • Conversations will be archived in the Library of Congress. (Forth- coming in March); Be part of the statewide read-along and orga- nize a reading of the Declaration of Independence on July 8th. ABOUT ILLINOIS HUMANITIES Illinois Humanities is a statewide nonprofit organization that activates the humanities through free public programs, grants, and educational opportunities that spark conversation, foster reflection, build community, and strengthen civic engagement for everyone in Illinois. We provide free, high-quality humanities experience throughout Illinois, particularly for communities of color, individuals living on low incomes, counties and towns in rural areas, small arts and cultural organizations, and communities highly impacted by mass incarceration. Founded in 1974, we are the state partner for the National Endowment for the Humanities and supported by state, federal, and private funds. Learn more at ilhumanities.org and on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn @ILHumanities. LEARN MORE ABOUT ILLINOIS HUMANITIES
View this content as a flipbook by clicking here.