Dave Eckhardt of Rochelle founded From the Heart, an annual gala fundraiser that raised about $1 million for Rochelle-area nonprofits over 18 years.
Shaw Local
Thank You, Everyday Heroes
A tribute to everyday heroes
Ogle County/Shaw Local News Network
Rochelle's Sarah Flanagan volunteers for numerous local causes, including the Hub City Senior Center, the Rochelle Rotary Club and the Rochelle Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
Kevin Zilm has been a member of Rochelle Lions Club for the past 19 years, serving as the club's president for much of that time.
Dennis Swinton’s volunteer work has included the Rochelle Kiwanis Golden K Club, the Boy Scouts, the Rochelle Moose Lodge and the Masonic Lodge.
Cal Jacobs's volunteer history has included the Rochelle Christian Food Pantry, the Rochelle Area Community Foundation, the Rochelle Free Summer Lunch Program and a recovery committee established following a 2015 EF4 tornado that hit the area.
A first-year dispatcher already named Dispatcher of the Year. A veteran who enlisted at 17. A dental care provider going above and beyond for her community. Meet the Rochelle area's reader-nominated 2026 Everyday Heroes.
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