New non-profit Elevate Illinois focuses on sharing stories about people, places, communities, non-profits and events from across the state. Its mission is to educate and unite Illinoisans around the many positive things which make Illinois great.
“It’s time we take back our narrative in Illinois,” said Elevate Illinois CEO and President Janet Mathis. “For too long, we have let negative news weigh us down and define us. Now is the time to remind ourselves and others of all that is good in Illinois and celebrate what unites, and not what divides, us.”
The organization’s website, elevateillinois.org, allows for grassroots sharing of stories, photos and videos which, upon review, will be shared on the Elevate Illinois blog and through its social media streams on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter with plans to expand to other platforms.
Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton encourages the idea of uplifting the positive stories that are happening in communities across the state of Illinois.
“As Lt. Governor, I have traveled the state and have seen first-hand all of the good that is happening in Illinois. I have personally witnessed the innovation, creativity, determination and strength of Illinoisans especially during a global pandemic,” Stratton said. “Amplifying what is good about Illinois uplifts us all. I’m looking forward to seeing the collection of information and shared stories that will be amplified by Elevate Illinois.”
The public is encouraged to use #elevateillinois on their own positive news posts about Illinois and visit the website to submit their stories.