Shaped by his own experience battling a heroin addiction, Tomsha has built a support system for those shaped by his own experience.

For 68 years, Walker has been in Princeton Elementary School District 115 helping and guiding children in numerous ways.

A PE teacher who turned grief into a mental health movement. A school resource officer who never says he’s too busy. A Marine who’s always there. Meet the Illinois Valley’s reader-nominated 2026 Everyday Heroes.

Raikes traces his commitment to service back to his childhood in Marseilles, because he had role models who instilled the importance of putting community before self.

With a background in accounting and an appreciation for small business, Hall is the volunteer treasurer for A Servant’s Heart, a role she said suits her on several levels.

Perez has devoted himself to his family, co-workers and community in an exemplary fashion, though most may be familiar with his work as a coach.