Mattoon Emerging Leaders

04/14/2026

This past Friday was session 4 of our 12 month Learn One, Lead One Series.

Help us extend a heartfelt thank you to Ambrosia Branson from The Hour House for leading such an engaging and thought-provoking session on Presentation Skills That Connect. What made this conversation so impactful was the way it challenged our own perceptions of public speaking because the truth is, it’s not just standing on a stage. It’s the everyday moments: sharing an idea, leading a meeting and advocating for yourself or others.

One of the biggest takeaways? Many people believe they’ll never have to “public speak” or lead but in reality, we all do. It just shows up in different ways.

Ambrosia helped reframe that mindset and provided practical tools to communicate with confidence, making it clear that these skills aren’t optional they’re essential to leadership, growth and connection.

Be sure to mark your calendars for session 5 featuring Alex Benishek on May 8th!

04/01/2026

Standing Stone is having its winter to spring switchover April 6-10. We need volunteers to help us help the community! Individuals to small groups are welcome. We ask that you wear closed-toed shoes and text or call before you come, so that we can have plenty of task for you to do. Times needed include Monday, April 6 - 9-noon, 1:30 - 4:00, and 6- 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 7 9-11:00 and Wednesday through Friday (April 8-10) 9- noon, 1:30 - 4:00.

03/31/2026

This isn’t just another inbox filler. It’s your inside line to local opportunities, resources and things worth knowing.

We personally invite you to join our correspondence list because you never know what opportunity awaits or what door might be ready to open for you.

https://forms.gle/v8u6LmnYA6fLD7Cq7

03/11/2026

Opportunity Awaits!

We’re Hiring! 💧

Clear Water Service Corporation is looking for a Customer Service Representative to join our team!
If you’re organized, dependable, and enjoy helping people, this could be a great fit. We offer competitive pay, flexible hours, and full-time benefits, with growth opportunities based on performance.

$18/hour
25–40 hours/week (flexible)
Full-time & part-time available

Ready to apply?
Send your resume to [email protected]

03/03/2026

Series 2 of 12 ✔️

Thank you to Laura Severson for an impactful luncheon focused on what it truly means to serve on a board. Not just filling a seat. Not just adding a title. But being present. Prepared. Engaged.

She reminded us that great boards don’t happen by accident, they are built by active leaders who ask good questions, lean into responsibility and show up with intention.

We are grateful for leaders who pour into the next generation of community changemakers.

Mark your calendar for March 13th as we welcome Carolyn Cloyd, Executive Director of the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce, for our next Professional Development Luncheon.

Growth happens when leaders gather. We hope you’ll pull up a chair.

02/12/2026

Congratulations to our outstanding 20 Under 40 honorees! 🎉
Nominated by our community, these individuals are being recognized for the impact they’re making across Coles County. We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2026 at the 20 Under 40 Community Leaders Breakfast on April 30th.
Details coming soon! ✨

02/12/2026

🔍 Search results we love to see…

✔ A heart for community
✔ Ways to give back locally
✔ Lived experience or perspective
✔ Community leadership opportunities

If this looks like something you’d search (or someone you know 👀), we would love to chat as we are in search of 2 new board members!

Serving on a nonprofit board is where professional growth meets personal purpose. It’s a chance to build leadership skills, expand your network and help guide meaningful work. All while using your voice and lived experience to strengthen the community you call home.

You don’t need a perfect resume or prior board experience. Just curiosity, integrity and a willingness to show up.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make an impact beyond your job title, this is it.

Contact Ashley 217-639-5150 if you want to learn more!