Small Change, Big Impact: How Geneseo Middle School Turned Spare Coins Into Diabetes Awareness—and $3,000+ for a Cure

by Sarah DeMaranville

At first glance, it looked simple.

Pennies on Monday. Nickels on Tuesday. Dimes, quarters, and finally dollar bills.

But inside Geneseo Middle School, this wasn’t just a coin drive—it was something much bigger.

It was a week built by students, for students, with a goal that went far beyond fundraising.

From Idea to Impact

The “Defeat Diabetes” fundraiser didn’t come from a template or a pre-packaged program.

It started with a conversation.

Pictured left to right: Jessica Jansen, Dru Weinzierl, Allison Bos, Simon Jones, & Brad Monier. Contributed photo

Last school year, school nurse Jessica Jansen worked alongside students living with Type 1 Diabetes and their families to create something meaningful—something that would not only raise money, but also build understanding.

And that’s exactly what happened.

Each morning during announcements, students and a teacher living with diabetes took the mic—not to promote the fundraiser, but to educate their peers.

They explained what Type 1 Diabetes actually is.

They broke down what daily life looks like.

And they made something invisible… visible.

What Students Learned (That Most Adults Don’t Know)

Throughout the week, students shared real, practical insights—things many people never fully understand about Type 1 Diabetes.

• It’s not preventable—and not caused by lifestyle choices

• The body can no longer produce insulin, which is essential for survival

• Every meal requires calculation, monitoring, and often insulin doses

• Blood sugar is affected by everything—food, activity, stress, illness, even temperature

• Devices like insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors help—but require constant attention

As one announcement explained, managing Type 1 Diabetes isn’t occasional—it’s constant.

Every snack. Every drink. Every day.

More Than Awareness—It Changed Behavior

The impact didn’t stop at education.

It showed up in the hallways.

Students began checking in on their classmates with diabetes. Friends started asking, “Do you need anything?” Peers learned how to respond in real-life situations—like recognizing low blood sugar and knowing to grab juice or a snack.

That shift—from awareness to action—is exactly what Jansen hoped for.

Her goal wasn’t just to teach facts.

It was to help students look beyond themselves—and understand what others are navigating every single day.

The Results: More Than Anyone Expected

By the end of the week, students and staff had raised:

$1,424.30

But the story didn’t end there.

• A local family stepped in and matched the total

• A substitute teacher, inspired by a former student with diabetes, donated an additional $200

Bringing the final total to:

$3,048.66

The top fundraising class: Mr. Monier’s 6th grade homeroom.

Second place went to Mrs. Schmidt’s 7th grade class.

But the real win went far beyond any classroom.

Where the Money Goes

All proceeds support Breakthrough T1D, a national organization focused on funding research and advancing technology to find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes.

Many Geneseo families, students, and staff are already connected to that mission—participating each year in the Breakthrough T1D Walk in the Quad Cities.

This fundraiser simply strengthened that connection.

Why This Matters

Schools teach math, reading, and science.

But weeks like this teach something different.

Empathy. Awareness. Community.

And maybe most importantly—perspective.

Because for students living with Type 1 Diabetes, there is no “off” switch.

And now, an entire school understands that just a little bit more.

City Council April 28 Preview

Residents will see a mix of big-picture development and smaller downtown improvements discussed at this week’s Committee of the Whole and Special City Council meetings.

A Major Development Project Moves Forward

The biggest item on the agenda is a proposed Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district on Ford Road, tied to a planned expansion by J.F. Edwards Construction.

In simple terms, a TIF allows the City to use future tax growth from a specific area to pay for infrastructure improvements now—in this case, things like sewer extensions needed to support new development.

The project includes:

• A new roughly 20,000-square-foot facility on Ford Road

• Future upgrades to the company’s existing location

• City infrastructure improvements to support growth in that area

City leaders say the goal is to keep the company growing in Geneseo while opening the door for additional development nearby.

The Committee of the Whole will review the plan, with final approval expected at the Special City Council meeting immediately following.

Downtown Improvement for Vorac Pharmacy

Closer to downtown, the City is considering a façade improvement grant for Vorac Pharmacy.

The project would replace the building’s current awning, which is in poor condition, with a new one. If approved, the City would cover about half the cost through an existing downtown improvement program.

These grants are designed to help maintain and improve the look of downtown storefronts.

Changes to Renewable Energy Rules

Council members will also review an update to the City’s rules around renewable energy connections, like solar.

This doesn’t directly impact most residents right away, but it helps set the framework for how future solar or energy systems connect to the local grid.

Street Work and Seasonal Updates

At the Special City Council meeting, officials are expected to:

• Approve a contract for street milling work this year

• Share reminders about spring cleanup and disposal dates

What This Means for Geneseo

This week’s meetings highlight a balance between:

• Long-term growth (Ford Road development)

• Downtown upkeep (façade improvements)

• Everyday operations (street work and seasonal services)

The Ford Road project, in particular, represents a significant step toward future economic development, with infrastructure being put in place to support both current and future businesses.

See complete documents here:

https://cityofgeneseo.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Id=7429

https://cityofgeneseo.civicweb.net/Portal/MeetingInformation.aspx?Id=7432

Geneseo Chamber of Commerce Announces Hiring of New Executive Director

The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the hiring of Lindsie Akers as its new Executive Director. With more than a decade of experience in marketing, events, and community engagement, Akers brings a strong track record of creating meaningful experiences and building lasting relationships within member-based organizations.

Lindsie Akers, incoming Executive Director of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce

Akers most recently served as a Marketing and Events Manager, where she led the planning and execution of large-scale events, managed member and vendor communities, and implemented systems to improve organizational efficiency and communication. Her background includes overseeing marketing campaigns, introducing innovative tools to streamline operations, and delivering high-quality programming that drives engagement and growth.

“We are excited to welcome Lindsie to the Chamber,” said Jenna Rushing, Board President of the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce. “Her experience in event programming, marketing strategy, and community building aligns perfectly with our mission to support and connect local businesses.”

Beginning May 4th, Akers will oversee the Chamber’s strategic direction, member engagement initiatives, and signature events, while working closely with local businesses and community partners to enhance the value of Chamber membership. 

“I'm looking forward to continuing to deliver the events you know and love, while finding new ways to support local businesses.” said Akers.

Akers holds a Master of Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University and a Bachelor of Science in Event Management from the University of Central Florida.

For more information about the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, visit www.geneseo.org or contact geneseo@geneseo.org.

Geneseo City Council Approves 2026 Farmers Market Agreement for City Park

The Geneseo City Council has approved a license agreement for the Farmers Market to operate at its Pearl Street location for the 2026 season, following recent discussion about the market’s future.

The action came during the April 14 City Council meeting, where the Council approved a one-year agreement for the market to continue at City Park.

The decision follows a March 24 Committee of the Whole meeting, where council members reviewed options related to both the market’s location and long-term structure. City materials noted that the market has operated in the Pearl Street/City Park corridor for several years, while also outlining considerations related to future planning and potential changes.

Agreement Linked to Legal Structure

A key component of the approved agreement is the requirement for the Farmers Market to establish a formal legal entity.

According to the City, this step was influenced by industry guidance. Market Coordinator Darin shared feedback that the Illinois Farmers Market Association “highly recommended that our market form a legal registered entity,” which led the Council to move forward with the agreement.

The City stated the agreement will take effect once that entity is formed and the contract is executed under its name. The agreement also includes provisions allowing for overflow use of the north side of City Park.

In its statement, the City said it “looks forward to continuing its relationship with the Market and supporting a successful 2026 season.” The City also encourages those interested in the matter, and the surrounding discussion, to watch the meeting for themselves by visiting the City’s YouTube Channel and clicking “04/14/2026 Regular City Council Meeting.”

Chamber Responds to Questions

The Geneseo Chamber of Commerce also addressed questions regarding its involvement.

The Chamber described its role as supporting collaboration among local businesses and existing initiatives, stating that “our role is to foster collaboration among businesses and support efforts that strengthen the local business community.” The organization also noted that it continues to partner with the Farmers Market on community events, including the upcoming Art Walk, and has no intent to launch a competing farmer’s market.

Farmers Market Coordinator responds

Farmers Market Coordinator Jill Darin said she appreciates the City Council’s concerns about protecting the market should circumstances change in the future. Darin is excited for for the outdoor season, with new vendors expected to join the market this year. She added that the market is continuing to coordinate with several local organizations, including the food pantry, Farm Bureau, Humane Society, and local hospital.

Next Steps

The Farmers Market is expected to operate at the City Park for the 2026 season under the approved agreement, pending completion of the required legal entity formation.

Geneseo Park District Advances Community Center Master Plan with First Phase Improvements

by Andy Thurman

Since November 2019, the Park District Staff and Board have been envisioning updates to the 40+ year old Community Center. This process started with a Master Plan Committee and needs assessments, was tabled during Covid, and then reimagined again in 2022. The Master Plan is a working document where staff and Board go to for goal setting, future needs, community input, collaboration, IT and more. The Master Plan was approved in December of 2022 and is a 10-year document.

One of the major pieces of this Master Plan was looking at the Community Center. This facility opened in 1983 and since then has had an Indoor Pool addition (1996) and weightroom/program area addition (2001).

Part of the plan was to hire an architect to help give a vision of an updated building and a phased approach. This vision came with community input sessions, surveys and interviews with Board and staff. This conceptual plan has updates to all areas of the building and some amazing Wishlist items as well.

The first phase of this plan was to add-on office area and storage to move staff out of central locations and create one storage area. This addition to the building has now opened up the pieces needed to allow for other updates and program spaces that are needed now and in the future. The office addition will house administrative staff and marketing, four total offices. There was office space that had previously been closed space and another that had a leaky backflow preventor running across the floor. This will help centralize operations. This addition also includes a meeting room for trainings, board meetings and eventually rented out for businesses.

A new storage area connected to the gymnasium consolidates previously scattered storage rooms into a single location. The addition of a garage door improves access for activities such as bounce house events and skate distribution, while also providing direct exterior access for transporting equipment to offsite programs.

Looking ahead, additional improvements under consideration this year include the development of a teen space, a toddler area, an updated sauna, and an additional program or rental room.

Funding for the first phase has been supported over the past decade through a trust held by the Geneseo Park District Foundation, along with local grant funding and in-kind donations.

The full Master Plan, including conceptual drawings, is available on the Park District website. Future phases of the project are expected to include additional opportunities for community input. If you ever have any questions please feel free to reach out to the Geneseo Park District Executive Director Andy Thurman at athurman@geneseparkdistrict.org.

Lady Leafs Step Up to Support Inspire Continuing Care

Geneseo’s Lady Leafs softball team is taking the field for more than just a game this month—they’re stepping up to support a cause that hits close to home.

On April 23, the Lady Leafs will face Alleman in a special charity game benefiting Inspire Continuing Care, a local organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families through compassionate care services.

The game, which begins at 4:30 p.m., is part of a broader effort to raise funds that will go directly back to Inspire. Throughout the event, the team and community are rallying together to make an impact in several ways. All proceeds from the concession stand will be donated, a bake sale table will offer additional opportunities to give, and a portion of team shirt sales—$2 from each purchase—will also support the cause.

The funds raised will help provide meaningful experiences and support for those served by Inspire, including field trips, meals, and contributions to a scholarship fund.

More than just a night of softball, the event reflects the spirit of community that defines Geneseo—neighbors showing up for one another, athletes using their platform for good, and local partnerships making a real difference.

For the Lady Leafs, it’s not just about the scoreboard. It’s about showing up, giving back, and playing for something bigger.

April City Council Meeting Preview

The Geneseo City Council meets Tuesday at 6:00 PM, and while this agenda is fairly routine, there are a few behind-the-scenes updates that help explain how the City operates.

Here’s what you need to know before the meeting.

Farmer’s Market Agreement

The biggest decision on this agenda is a new agreement for the Geneseo Farmer’s Market.

• The location is not changing (it will remain at City Park).

• Any changes are behind the scenes—visitors shouldn’t notice a difference.

• This is about how the market is structured and managed legally.

The City is reviewing updated agreement options that:

• Define responsibilities more clearly

• Require insurance and legal protections

• Ask the market to distribute information to its vendors on sales tax compliance

This is primarily about who is responsible if something goes wrong—and how clearly that’s defined.

The past agreement has worked, but it’s more informal. The new agreement is designed to:

• Reduce liability for the City

• Formalize how the market operates

• Remove gray areas

A Look at City Finances (and Why the Numbers Can Be Misleading)

The Council will also review the Treasurer’s Report and Capital Planning updates.

At first glance, the numbers might raise eyebrows.

• The City has collected about $1.07 million in revenue so far

• It has already spent about $4.87 million

That looks like a large deficit—but it’s not what it seems.

Here’s what’s actually happening

• Many major expenses and internal transfers are paid early in the year.

• Revenue—especially taxes—comes in gradually over time.

So right now, the City is spending ahead of revenue on purpose.

What this tells us

• Finances appear stable.

• The system relies on timing and planned cash flow.

Capital Planning: Thinking Ahead

Alongside the financial report, the City is reviewing its capital planning documents.

This is where the City tracks:

• What it owns (vehicles, equipment, infrastructure)

• What needs to be repaired or replaced

• What projects are planned for the future

A full list of 2026 projects is included in the materials .

Other Business

Several items are expected to be approved quickly as part of the consent agenda, including:

• A construction easement agreement with IDOT

• A façade improvement grant for a local business

• The sale of surplus City equipment

These items are typically grouped together and approved in one vote unless a council member asks to discuss one individually.

Community Updates

A few upcoming dates were also highlighted:

• Spring disposal days: April 18 and May 9

• Arbor Day: April 24

• Art Walk: April 25

View the full agenda packet here.

High Tea and Fashion Show Fundraiser Planned for Freedom House Shelter

Geneseo, IL - Freedom House is hosting a High Tea and Fashion Show on Sunday, May 3, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Central School House Inn in Geneseo.

The afternoon will feature an array of sweets made by Abigail Wolf, the young teen, who, along with her brother Kenneth, won the Food Network Championship Bake Off – Next Gen, and savory items by Jennifer Jude of P.L. Johnson’s. Jude is known for her popular tea parties at her historic restaurant in Bishop Hill. Various teas, coffee and punch will add to the menu.

Fashions from Four Seasons, Geneseo, will be modeled, showing off the latest in spring and summer wear.

A silent auction, with all things floral, will be available, perfect for Mother’s Day gifts.

Tickets are $50, with tables of four for $200. Seating is limited, and those interested are encouraged to reserve their space early.  Tickets can be purchased here:

https://givebutter.com/springtime-high-tea-2026-3ywl32

Freedom House was established in 1983 by Nedda Simon. It serves survivors of abuse in Henry, Bureau, Stark, Marshall and Putnam counties. Counseling, shelter and ongoing support are provided at no charge.

The agency is adding a 40 bed shelter in Kewanee in response to the large number of clients from Henry County who seek services. Proceeds from this event will go towards funding the shelter.

Geneseo Wine Walk Set to Debut May 30 in Downtown District

A new event is coming to downtown Geneseo this spring, offering a fresh way to experience local businesses, enjoy live music, and spend an afternoon out with friends.

Hosted by the Geneseo Chamber of Commerce, the inaugural Geneseo Wine Walk will take place Saturday, May 30 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., transforming State Street into a walkable, open-air destination for wine tasting, shopping, and community connection.

State Street will be closed from Central Bank Pavilion to North Street during the event, creating a pedestrian-friendly environment filled with live music, gathering spaces, and activity throughout the downtown district.

How It Works

Participants who purchase a ticket will gain access to wine tastings hosted inside participating businesses across downtown Geneseo. Attendees can move from stop to stop, sampling a variety of wines while browsing shops, discovering new storefronts, and taking advantage of in-store promotions and special experiences.

Local restaurants will also be open throughout the event, offering options for guests to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a full glass of their favorite wine along the route.

What to Expect

The event is designed to blend multiple elements of the downtown experience into one afternoon, including:

• Wine tastings inside participating businesses

• Exclusive shopping promotions and in-store experiences

• Live music and outdoor gathering space along State Street

• Opportunities to dine at local restaurants during the event

• A social, walkable atmosphere in the heart of Geneseo

Live music will continue at Central Bank Pavilion from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., allowing attendees to extend their evening after the Wine Walk concludes.

Tickets and Details

Tickets are required to participate and must be purchased online in advance. No day-of ticket sales will be available.

Organizers note that tickets are limited and expected to sell out. Guests may purchase multiple tickets and will receive a digital QR code to present at check-in.

Additional details include:

• Ticket sales close May 10

• Participants must be 21 or older to take part in wine tastings

• Check-in will take place at the Chamber booth, where guests will present their digital ticket, verify ID, and receive a commemorative wine glass, wristband, and event passport

A New Downtown Tradition

With a focus on local businesses, walkability, and shared experiences, the Geneseo Wine Walk aims to create a new tradition that highlights what makes the community’s downtown unique.

Organizers encourage attendees to plan their stops in advance, gather a group of friends, and take full advantage of an afternoon designed to sip, shop, and explore.