Naperville resident Jan Gricus has been recognized for her significant contributions to community gardening by receiving the prestigious 2025 Sustained Excellence Award at the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener Conference in Springfield. Gricus was one of four master gardeners from DuPage County honored for their commitment to leadership, innovation, and community engagement. Each year, nominations are submitted across various categories, including Outstanding, Teamwork, and Sustained Excellence, and are evaluated by a state advisory committee.
Gricus has consistently volunteered over 200 hours annually on local master gardener projects. In 2014, she received an Outstanding Award for her efforts. Under her leadership at the Naperville Giving Garden, food pantry donations have soared to over 1,000 pounds per year, as noted in the announcement from the University of Illinois Extension. Other DuPage County master gardeners honored with Outstanding Awards include Carol Burck of Hinsdale, Pat Miller of Westmont, and Suzanna Viravec of Huntley.
DuPage County Initiates Support for Food Program Recipients
In related news, DuPage County is taking proactive measures to assist residents affected by the recent suspension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). According to county officials, more than 67,000 residents who depend on SNAP for grocery purchases could face challenges following the halt that began on November 1, 2023.
County Board Chair Deborah Conroy emphasized the importance of connecting residents with local food providers. Residents can reach out to 211 DuPage by calling or visiting their website at www.211DuPage.gov to locate food pantries in the area. Trained specialists at 211 can also assist with inquiries related to rent and energy bill payments.
For individuals wishing to contribute or volunteer at local food pantries, Giving DuPage offers resources and connections through its website, www.GivingDuPage.org. Among the food assistance options available, Loaves & Fishes Community Services at 1871 High Grove Lane, Naperville, provides support to residents in need. The pantry hours are Tuesday to Thursday from 9:00 to 15:00, Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 17:00 to 19:00, and Saturday from 8:00 to 14:00. For more information, visit www.loaves-fishes.org.
Other nearby food pantries include Loaves & Fishes in Aurora, the People’s Resource Center locations in Wheaton and Westmont, and the West Suburban Community Pantry in Woodridge. For comprehensive food assistance resources, residents can access www.dupagecounty.gov/food.
Naperville Bank & Trust Receives Recognition for Community Support
In a separate recognition, Naperville Bank & Trust has been awarded the title of “Best Friend of Illinois Parks” by the Illinois Association of Park Districts. Nominated by the Naperville Park District, the bank was acknowledged for its enduring partnership and support of local recreational initiatives. The award is presented annually to businesses that have demonstrated significant contributions to park districts and other related agencies.
The bank’s support includes volunteer efforts and sponsorship of the Fee Assistance Program, which aims to enhance accessibility to recreational programs for residents facing financial constraints. Additionally, last year, the bank entered into a five-year agreement to name Knoch Park’s synthetic turf field as Wintrust Athletic Field.
These initiatives highlight the commitment of both individuals and organizations in Naperville and DuPage County to foster community engagement and support those in need.
