CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is encouraging residents to send messages of hope, love and encouragement to older adults living in long-term care facilities, who may be separated from their loved ones during the pandemic.

“Older folks are doing their best to cope with the changes brought on by COVID-19, but they’re left alone with no in-person contact from loved ones,” Bennett said. “Sending a homemade card or note will help make them feel special and connected, and is sure to brighten their day.”

Bennett is encouraging residents to write cards, which can be homemade or store-bought, with a few words of support for older adults. Send cards to Bennett’s office, and staff will distribute them to local long-term care facilities.

“Let’s show our neighborly support for our seniors in long-term care facilities, who may need some extra love right now,” Bennett said. “Kids at home should also participate. A simple note of encouragement will help show we are all in this together.”

Cards can be sent to Bennett’s Champaign or Danville office:

State Senator Scott Bennett
45 E. University, Suite 206
Champaign, IL 61820

State Senator Scott Bennett
201 N. Vermilion St., Suite 323
Danville, IL 61832

If residents have any concerns or questions, Bennett urges them to call his office at 217-355-5252 or visit his website at SenatorBennett.com.

CHAMPAIGN – In an effort to recruit and support future educators, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is excited to announce nine local schools will receive Education Career Pathways Grants from the Illinois State Board of Education.

“Teachers play an important role in our society and have the power to bring about change in a student’s life,” Bennett said. “This grant is an opportunity to support diversity in the teaching workforce, which will contribute to students’ desire to learn and overall performance in the classroom.”

The Education for Employment System #330 in Champaign has been awarded $85,450, which will be distributed to nine high schools in Champaign County to assist these schools in developing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to prepare students for careers in education.

CTE programs help students develop technical and employability skills while strengthening their core academic abilities to enable them to pursue higher education opportunities and succeed in the workforce. Students in CTE programs also have the opportunity to earn dual credit or credentials and certifications from partner institutions before graduating high school.

The programs will place a special focus on recruiting underrepresented students into education careers to help meet the high demand for teachers of color across Illinois.

Nearly $2 million in total funding has been awarded to 11 Education for Employment Systems statewide to recruit and support future educators at 62 high schools and vocational centers across the state. For a full list of grant recipients or to learn more about career and college readiness programs in Illinois, visit www.ISBE.net/CTE.

URBANA – In an effort to help young adults find jobs during the pandemic, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) supported the Illinois Department of Human Services’ COVID-19 Summer Youth Employment Program, which provides employment opportunities for youth in the community.

“Young adults are facing a tough job market because of the pandemic,” Bennett said. “This program is a unique opportunity for young workers to gain valuable work experience during these tough times.”

The state has dedicated $9.3 million to the program to employ low-income youth living in areas most affected by the pandemic.

Urbana Neighborhood Connections is one of 30 youth employment providers and will receive $500,000 to employ 100 youth workers for the next three months. Employees will be matched with work-based learning opportunities based on their age, ability and experience, and will take part in career development training. 

For more information about Urbana Neighborhood Connections program, contact Michelle Turner at 217-898-1019 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

CHAMPAIGN – The University of Illinois Willard Airport is set to receive funding through the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Division of Aeronautics, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) announced Friday.

“Willard Airport is an important economic engine for Champaign County and these funds will be critical to improving the facility,” Bennett said. “Investing in airport infrastructure will enhance safety, create jobs and provide economic benefits to our community.”

A state commitment of $1.55 million to leverage a total investment of $31 million for airport improvements will improve safety and boost capacity in Champaign-Urbana, Quincy and Rockford.

These projects are made possible by $27.9 million in supplemental discretionary funding through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program, with the Illinois Department of Transportation providing the matching funds to maximize the funding opportunity and accelerate construction.

The University of Illinois – Willard Airport will receive $9.9 million from federal funds, $550,000 state match, and $550,000 local match for runway reconstruction.