Joliet Central JROTC Cadets Volunteer At Old Joliet Prison: 'Our Cadets Showed Up Ready To Work'

(The following press release is from Kristine Schlismann, director of Community & Alumni Relations with Joliet Township High School.)

JOLIET, IL — On October 24, 22 cadets from the Joliet Central High School JROTC Steelman Battalion volunteered at the historic Old Joliet Prison, earning community service hours while helping preserve an important piece of Joliet's history.

Through their service, cadets gained a greater appreciation for the importance of preserving historical landmarks and the role volunteers play in maintaining these sites for future generations. The experience also gave cadets an opportunity to demonstrate leadership, teamwork and selfless service while making a positive impact on their local community.

"Our cadets showed up ready to work and proud to be part of something bigger than themselves," said retired Army Lt. Col. Jodi Krippel, JROTC instructor at Joliet Central High School. "The Old Joliet Prison is a landmark that tells part of our city's story. When cadets give their time to help care for it, they learn that service and citizenship are not just ideas we talk about in class. They are things we live out in our community."

The Joliet Central JROTC program takes pride in providing meaningful community service opportunities that encourage cadets to become responsible citizens and understand the value of giving back.

Group Photo ID: Front Row (L-R) – Edwin Crisostomo, Katelyn Krippel, Abigial Pelaez, Rylie Meyer, Edgar Rios

2^nd Row (L-R) – Francisco Contreras, Nathan Vanderhyden, Amberly Gonzalez, Evelyn Cabrera, Evelyn Esparza

3^rd Row (L-R) – Malachi Doyle, Leonardo Castaneda, Deandre Reyes, Raul Moreno, Marbella Garcia, Erik Pinos, Maritza Bibian, Julian Porhte, Azlyn Bueno, Valari Piwnicki