03/22/2026
Today I was honored to receive the “Richard J. Daley Citizen of the Year” Award from District 1-A of Lions Club International. I was nominated by the Orland Park Lions Club, who were one of the earliest supporters of my project. I’m currently in New York with the Sandburg Band, so I was not able to attend in person (my parents and godmother attended on my behalf) so I recorded a video that was played at the reception. Community service is a common goal of both the Lions and Scouting, and I am incredibly honored for this recognition.
The nomination reads:
“It is with great pride that I nominate Jimmy Sullivan, a dedicated Scout from Troop 318 in Orland Park, Illinois, for the prestigious Citizen of the Year award by Lions International. Jimmy demonstrated exceptional community spirit and leadership through his remarkable Eagle Scout project, which focused on restoring a neglected 19th-century cemetery in Orland Park, Illinois.
This historic cemetery, the final resting place of some of Orland Park's earliest settlers, had suffered years of disrepair due to a lack of maintenance funds.
Recognizing the importance of preserving this piece of local heritage, Jimmy took the initiative to organize and lead a full restoration effort. He spearheaded fundraising activities, successfully gathering the necessary resources to repair headstones, restore gates, and replace signs throughout the cemetery.
Through his dedication, Jimmy not only honored the memory of the community's forebears but also brought together local residents, inspiring them to take pride in their shared history. His project stands as a testament to the impact one person can have in revitalizing community spaces and fostering a spirit of service in others.
For his outstanding leadership, commitment to service, and positive influence on Orland Park, I wholeheartedly recommend Jimmy Sullivan for the Citizen of the Year award.”
Orland Park Lions
District 1-A Lions Clubs
Orland Park Troop 318
