McLean County Times

The McLean County Republicans have issued the following press release:

The McLean County Republican Central Committee has named its Everyday Hero Award recipient for 2022. Recognized this year will be Barbara Whiteman of Arrowsmith, Illinois. Barbara volunteers for the Living Well United Senior Center of  Le Roy, Illinois. Member Lindsay Pray nominated her. Barbara will be honored at the Republican party’s annual Lincoln Reagan Dinner on April 29th. The award, which recognizes community leadership and service, will be presented Judge Carla Barnes and is sponsored by Denbesten Real Estate of Bloomington. The recognition includes a $500 grant to the charity of the winner’s choice.

Living Well United member Lindsay Pray wrote in her nomination letter, “Barb Whiteman recognized that eastern McLean County rural communities needed organized resources/activities/education and exercise for older adults. Barb became a volunteer senior fitness instructor in 2014 at the local gym. She started hosting events for seniors in restaurants, the bank basement, churches, wherever she could find a space. But she felt the rural seniors needed more. With her own money, she applied to become a nonprofit and Living Well United was born… Because Barb is bringing needed resources to rural seniors, they are able to stay in the best mental and physical shape possible, so they can safely remain in their own homes in our rural communities-which truly is their hearts’ desire. This volunteer gives most of her time, much of her money and all of herself to volunteerism. I think you will agree that she is the perfect candidate for the Everyday Hero Award.” The McLean County Republican Central Committee agreed with Lindsay Pray’s assessment.

Rosemary Parker, Treasurer of the Crumbaugh Memorial Library Board of Trustees, supported Barbara Whiteman's nomination. She noted, “Barb Whiteman’s passion and actions support the needs of an entire community.”  Rev. Mattheis Lorimor, Pastor of the LeRoy First United Methodist Church, also supported Barb’s nomination. Rev. Lorimor noted, “the Living Well Center has offered untold ways for our local seniors to connect, to serve, and to find fellowship.”

The McLean County Republican’s Everyday Hero Award is given in recognition of an exemplary unpaid volunteer who has done exceptional work with volunteer engagement. With a genuine passion for the members of her community and the needs and goals of the organization, Barbara Whiteman is an excellent example of what it means to be an Everyday Hero. She is among McLean County’s finest!

It is still possible to attend the Lincoln Reagan Dinner. Reservation information is available at https://www.mcleancountyrepublicans.org/ or by emailing lincolnreagandinner@mcleancountyrepublicans.org