Voluntary Action Center of Northern Illinois

06/19/2026

Thank you to the DeKalb County Circuit Clerk's Office for their generous donation of $400 to VAC's Meals on Wheels program.

The staff recently pooled their own cash contributions to support local seniors, demonstrating the power of community and compassion in action. Their generosity will help provide nutritious meals and friendly wellness checks to older adults throughout our service area.

We are grateful for partners like the DeKalb County Circuit Clerk's Office who help ensure seniors can remain healthy, independent, and connected. Thank you for making a difference in the lives of our neighbors.

06/18/2026

Voluntary Action Center Appoints Rick Burchell as Next Executive Director

The Board of Directors of Voluntary Action Center (VAC) of Northern Illinois is pleased to announce the appointment of Rick Burchell as the organization’s next Executive Director.

In September 2025, Executive Director Nate Kloster informed the Board of his plans to retire in the summer of 2026. Since then, the Board has conducted a comprehensive succession planning process to ensure strong leadership and continued organizational success.

Following that process, the Board is delighted to welcome Rick to VAC. He brings extensive leadership and administrative experience, having served as Principal of Kaneland Middle School for eight years and Director of the Fox Valley Career Center for fourteen years. Throughout his career, Rick has managed large organizations, built strong partnerships with businesses and community groups, and secured grants to support programs and services.

Rick and his family reside in DeKalb and have deep roots in the community. The Board believes his leadership experience, collaborative approach, and commitment to service make him an excellent fit to guide VAC into its next chapter.

Rick will begin his role on July 1, 2026, overseeing VAC’s operations across DeKalb, Kendall, LaSalle, Bureau, and Putnam counties. To support a smooth transition, Nate Kloster will remain with the organization through the end of July, working closely with Rick as he assumes his new responsibilities. The Board extends its sincere appreciation to Nate for his years of dedicated leadership and his commitment to ensuring a successful transition.

“The Board is excited to welcome Rick to the VAC family,” said Joel Maurer, President of the Board of Directors. “His experience, vision, and strong community connections will help build upon VAC’s legacy of service while positioning the organization for continued growth and impact.”

06/17/2026

Thank you, DeKalb County Community Foundation (IL) for your continued support!

🙌 🚚 Grant in Action!
Every meal delivered through Meals on Wheels is more than food. It's a wellness check, a connection to the community, and a reminder that someone cares.

In 2025, the Voluntary Action Center of Northern Illinois expanded its ability to serve older adults with a new delivery vehicle supported in part by an $18,500 Community Needs Grant from the Community Foundation. The vehicle helps ensure meals are delivered safely and efficiently to those who rely on them.

👇 Link to the full story in the comments.

06/15/2026

See you there!

💜 Taking Steps Against Abuse 💜
Safe Passage staff are proud to participate in the upcoming World Elder Abuse Awareness Walk, hosted by our wonderful community partner, Elder Care Services! June 15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Join us as we walk together to show our support, raise awareness, and stand with Elder Care Services in our community. When: Monday, June 15th, 2026, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: NM Health and Wellness Center (626 Bethany Rd., DeKalb, IL)
Cost: FREE event!
See you there! ✨

06/11/2026

Congratulations, Scott!

06/11/2026

Who will be the May Volunteer of the Month?!?

06/10/2026

A huge thank you to Coach Jeff (R) and Wounded Warrior Project service member Kevin (L) for volunteering with our Meals on Wheels program last Wednesday!

What started as a conversation about Kevin's desire to give back to the community turned into a meaningful day of service. After expressing interest in volunteering more often, Coach Jeff helped connect Kevin with our Meals on Wheels program, and we couldn't be more grateful.

Volunteers like Jeff and Kevin help ensure that nutritious meals, friendly smiles, and caring connections reach older adults throughout our community. Thank you both for stepping up to make a difference. We look forward to seeing you again soon!

06/02/2026

AGAIN! Rotaract Club of Sycamore coming through with more donations! Thank you!!