Blog Archives

Takeaways from March's Keeping it Local

3/31/2026

Before and After the Big Beautiful Bill: The State of Food Banks and Food Insecurity

At the March 25 Keeping It Local program, three panelists discussed the impact on local food programs of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which changed many food assistance requirements. Bailey Parks-Moore from the Eastern Illinois Foodbank, Charles Evans from Daily Bread Soup Kitchen, and Dawn Longfellow from the Wesley Food Pantry all described the increase in food insecurity and demand for food assistance they have seen since the passage of the bill. They welcome volunteers to help meet the local needs. Opportunities can be found at:

Takeaways from February's Keeping It Local

3/3/2026

Is Now the Time for You to Run for Public Office?

At the February 25 Keeping It Local Program, three panelists—Regina Crider, Rantoul Village Board Member; Vanna Pianfetti, Champaign City Council Member; and Diane Wolfe Marlin, former Urbana City Council Member and Mayor—shared their experiences holding elected positions in Champaign County. Here is some advice they shared:

What advice would you give to someone considering running for the first time?

Attend current meetings and talk to current office holders. You don’t need to attend in person since many meetings are online.
Ask about current projects, daily activities, and time commitments.
Consider participating in an appointed position on a city or park district board or commission first. They are less intensive than elected positions and can provide a useful introduction to public service.

Why is it important to run for public office?

Local government is where many decisions that impact people’s lives are made.
We need a variety of voices and life experiences making decisions.
If you have a complaint, be willing to help shape a solution by running for office.
"You must do the things you think you cannot do." (Attributed to former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt)

If you were unable to attend this informative session, the recorded video is now available on the LWVCC YouTube site.

Takeaways from March's Keeping it Local

Before and After the Big Beautiful Bill: The State of Food Banks and Food Insecurity

Takeaways from February's Keeping It Local

Is Now the Time for You to Run for Public Office?

News & Announcements

Archives