2021 Herald Angels Campaign Sets Another Record

Joliet Herald-News Steve Vanisko on Monday, Dec. 4, 2017, in Joliet, Ill.

On any given day, the pages of this newspaper are filled with more bad news than good. That has especially been the case over the last couple years and reflects what’s been going on. Not just here, but everywhere.

The continuous flow of negative information can get depressing, frustrating or even overwhelming. You might even be left with a sense that there’s not much you can do to make things better. And while that’s the case in some situations, it’s definitely not the case in others.

As an example, back on November 22 we launched our 25th Herald Angels Campaign. In an interview with Denise Baran-Unland, United Way of Will County president & CEO Kamala Martinez cited mental health, housing and food insecurity among the largest concerns facing local residents.

Acknowledging the need, a record number of Herald-News subscribers responded with a donation. It’s really good to know there are those out there willing to step up and lend a hand when members of our community are hurting and very much in need.

Like in the past, the Herald-Angels Campaign funds programs that help local residents remain healthy, independent and successful through the United Way of Will County. As has been our practice, every dollar donated is given directly to the United Way, which partners with 40 organizations and funds 78 programs in Will County.

Interestingly, this year’s campaign was strikingly similar to last, which at that point was a record for donors and donations. Early this week, we received two donations which pushed us past 2020 in donations raised. In total, we had 212 donors and raised $14,695.

We received donations ranging from $5 to $500, most of which were made in honor of loved ones who had passed away. We also had 22 “Anonymous” donors, including one individual who, for the second consecutive year, donated $3,500.

Just an incredible outpouring of support.

On behalf of the past and present employees of the Herald-News, a heartfelt thank you for the continued trust and support you have given Herald-Angels over the last 25 years.

We look forward to doing this again next year.