Plainfield Emergency Management Agency Finalist For Governor Award

PLAINFIELD, IL — The Plainfield Emergency Management Agency was one of the 2023 finalists of the Governor's Hometown Award, officials announced.

The award from the Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service in partnership with the Governor's Office is given out as a way to formally recognize groups that have contributed to projects that improved their community's quality of life, according to a news release.

The Village of Pleasant Hill's Summer Food Program was this year's winner, chosen by a panel of six judges. As a finalist, PEMA was one of four to compete for the Governor's cup and received an honorable mention.

Commander Zach Zigterman of the Plainfield Police Department nominated PEMA in the "Disaster Services/Public Safety" category.

Comprised of 25 volunteers, PEMA supports Plainfield when it comes to disasters and public safety. The agency is called out by the police or fire department to provide scene lighting or traffic control and free up first responders to respond to other calls.

In 2022, members responded to 31 emergency callouts and volunteered 3,479 hours in the community, according to the release