Good morning, Plainfield.

Since 2015, 100+ Women Who Care has raised over $250,000 for 46 local charities—donating $15,800 to Shady Oaks and $10,725 to New Lenox Food Pantry among others.

The group meets four times a year and will gather again on Sept. 8.

Herald News has honored local everyday heroes in Will County today, including a nonprofit CEO — known for his open-door approach, a school board member who listens to diverse voices, and a retired literacy advocate who manages local Little Free Libraries.

Cornerstone Services' CEO Ben Stortz is known for his open-door policy and for teaching important work skills to staff while helping clients daily (he also coaches his children at home).

His practical leadership enhances both workplace support and family values.

Plainfield teacher Andrea Paplaski-Grygiel (Queen P) was named Will County Educator of Excellence on April 2 at Joliet by the Will County Regional Office of Education.

She taught physical education at Grand Prairie Elementary School for 27 years and is celebrated for her commitment to her students.

Tina Vasquez, a paraprofessional at Bonnie McBeth Learning Center, leads a district wide cookie drive that donates Girl Scout cookies and supplies to military members overseas.

The program, begun by District 202 and now including all 31 schools, also features Veterans Day celebrations to honor military service.

Lincoln-Way Central coach Eric Balluff served six years in the Army, including a tour in Iraq, and now uses the lessons he learned in service to guide his 17-year career coaching tennis and girls wrestling while teaching special education.

Shred It & Forget It: Free Document Shredding Event

9 AM - 12 PM — Keller Williams Realty Infinity Plainfield — Free entry — Safely shred your old documents while decluttering your space and protecting your identity.

Local Business Expo

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Bronkberry Farms — Free entry — Support local vendors and discover community businesses from crafts to wellness.

4th of July Create & Sip Workshop

6:30-9 p.m. — Garage Band Brewing — $20 cash balance due at the event — Enjoy a creative evening of crafting your own wooden project while sipping craft beer.