Chris Balkema, Illinois State Senator for 53rd District | Facebook
Chris Balkema, Illinois State Senator for 53rd District | Facebook
More than 60 students from 11 high schools gathered in Pontiac for a Youth Advisory Council event organized by Illinois State Senator Chris Balkema. The students discussed issues important to them and worked on drafting possible bills that could be introduced as legislation.
Senator Balkema, who was elected to the Illinois State Senate in 2025 as a Republican representing the 53rd District, replacing Thomas M. Bennett, expressed optimism about the involvement of young people in civic matters.
"Watching them collaborate, share ideas, and build connections with peers they just met this morning gives me tremendous hope for the future. Illinois has many challenges, but with bright, passionate young people like these stepping up, I know our future is in good hands," Balkema said.
Guest speakers at the event included Representative Jason R. Bunting; Jose Burgos, Chief External Affairs Officer for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources; and Mary Kucharz, Grundy County Administrator. They spoke with students about their roles and answered questions.
A highlight video from the event is available online at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Nr6lrraeIl8
Alerts Sign-up