During the past several articles, we have looked at the rich history of Peoria Heights. For this month’s article, we will be looking at history made through an organization we don’t often see as historic and with a group we do not view as creating history.

Throughout the months of August, September and October of 2015, the second Richwoods Township/Peoria Heights High School Leadership Academy was held. During these workshops, nine young people had the opportunity to glean leadership techniques from individuals engaged in local government, state government, community-based organizations, business and media. These “academicians” had their eyes opened as they attended a county board executive committee meeting and interacted with a circuit judge.

During the workshop addressing “Leadership in the Local Community,” one of the presenters touched the minds and hearts of several young participants. Officer Bradley Vaughn mentioned his concern that there appears to be a disconnect resulting in increased tension in some but not all communities between local police departments and the communities they serve.

His words resonated with the young academicians. The strength of that resonation would be exhibited months later, resulting in a historic event for Peoria Heights and Richwoods Township.

Because of the manner in which the leadership academy is designed, each group of graduates must develop a project of their own choosing. The 2014 academy chose to develop and implement a job fair for local-area high school students. However, this group of graduates still had Officer Vaughn’s words recurring in their consciousness, leading to their compelling conclusion: the project for the 2015 Richwoods Township/Peoria Heights High School Leadership Academy would be a community appreciation night.

Because of the exposure graduates had received to multiple community organizations, including the Peoria Heights Police Department, they had a sensitized awareness that many groups are taken for granted, therefore lacking a common, community thank-you.

So on this past May 6, the 2015 leadership academy hosted the first-ever community appreciation night. The graduates invited and engaged organizations such as teachers in Peoria Heights District 325, the Peoria Heights Police Department, the Peoria Heights Public Works Department, the Village of Peoria Heights, Richwoods Township, the Peoria Heights Public Library and multiple businesses.

The fare was simple but the evening’s spirit was invigorating. Yes, there were hot dogs, chips, cookies and water to complete the menu, but those who attended enjoyed themselves. The smiles abounded and the laughter, infectious. Those who often go un-mentioned, were honored from the Tower Park Center Stage during a festival of lip-sync and karaoke.

So, to the community, to those businesses who gave because of their belief in the mission of the community appreciation night and to those who provided assistance with set-up and grilling, the 2015 graduates of the Richwoods Township/Peoria Heights High School Leadership Academy say thank you.

The 2015 Richwoods Township/Peoria Heights High School Leadership Academy graduates have made their own history. I invite you to come to Peoria Heights and observe that history.  Perhaps, you might make your own.