Village of South Holland, IL

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 23, 2004

CONTACT:  Mary Ann Thornton
708-210-2918

South Holland Residents Honored for Commitment to Diversity

During an inspirational event celebrating the diversity of the Chicago Southland region, Pat Mahon and Jacki Rivera received commendations for their commitment to and achievements in promoting diversity in the region.  Both outstanding and dedicated women were honored recently during Diversity, Inc.’s ninth annual dinner and awards program.

Mahon, honored for her proactive approach to enhancing race relations through implementing programs that promote fellowship and friendship, received the David A. Janke Community Vitality Award.  The award was named in honor of the late David Janke, former Public Relations Director for the Village of South Holland. Mahon, Deputy Administrator for the Village, has effectively and successfully spearheaded community events that join together residents of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, foster neighborliness and unity, and break down barriers. “In South Holland, we work hard to build a supportive and inclusive community in an effort for our residents to appreciate and celebrate the differences associated with heritage and cultural values,” said Mahon.

Rivera, a trustee of Thornton Township, received the Achievement Award for her lifetime commitment to furthering the social vitality of the region.  A program director at Harvey-based Restoration Ministries, Rivera has worked with the Salvation Army and the South Holland Ministerial Association.  As a volunteer in the Village of South Holland, Rivera is currently a member of the Neighborhood Groups Association.

“The south suburban region is a wonderful place to live and work, and I am fortunate to have the opportunity to share my time, talents and treasures with this region,” said Rivera.  “There are so many people who, through their due diligence, have made our communities stronger and more vital, and it is their dedication that inspires me.”

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Jacki Rivera and Pat Mahon received diversity awards at the Diversity, Inc. 9th Annual Dinner.

The Village of South Holland
Communications Department
16226 Wausau Avenue   South Holland, IL 60473
Telephone 708-210-2918     Fax 708-210-1019

Email:  mthornton@southholland.org