Serve Illinois Commission Selects Two Moline Organizations as 2020 Governor’s Hometown Project Award Winners
Double award highlights Moline’s vibrant community engagement
MOLINE, IL (March 31, 2021) Today, Moline Mayor Stephanie Acri, joined by members of the City Council, announced the selection of Mercado on Fifth and Quad Cities Marathon as winners of the 2020 Governor’s Hometown Project Award.
The Serve Illinois Commission selects organizations that encourage volunteerism, identify and provide a public need solution, and generate a positive outcome for the community. Mayor Stephanie Acri nominated both organizations for the 2020 award, citing the vitality they bring and the sheer number of people which both organizations positively impact.
The double win marks the first time since 2017 that a municipality has had two award winners; it is a testament to the tremendous work these organizations are doing in Moline to create a better city for residents, businesses, and visitors.
“I’m so proud of both Mercado on Fifth and Quad Cities Marathon for their well-deserved win,” said Mayor Stephanie Acri. “While the two organizations are very different on the surface, at their core, they represent the best of Moline - serving people and helping to build a community we can all be proud of.”
Mercado on Fifth serves as a resource and catalyst for aspiring entrepreneurs. The weekly events bring Quad Citizens together to celebrate culture and community inclusively. Educational programming at Mercado provides enrichment hours for children, and free nonprofit booth space gets helpful information to adults.
On behalf of Mercado on Fifth, Maria Ontiveros thanked the Mayor for nominating her organization, saying, “I appreciate Mayor Acri nominating Mercado on Fifth. We are proud of the work we do and to have it recognized by Serve Illinois is a great tribute to all the volunteers who make Mercado on Fifth happen.”
The TBK Bank Quad Cities Marathon brings thousands of athletes and thousands more volunteers and race fans from around the region to Moline. A USATF Certified and Boston Qualifier course, the race captures the essence of the nation’s heartland with its consistent connection to the Mississippi River and Midwest charm. The course features some of the finest and most beautiful river views in the country.
“We are deeply honored,” said Joe Moreno, Race Director at Quad Cities Marathon. “When people come for the Marathon, we put Moline on display. From the volunteers to the runners, everyone plays a special part in showcasing the very best of our community.”
The Serve Illinois Commission is a 40-person, bi-partisan board appointed by the governor to increase volunteerism throughout Illinois.
Serve Illinois will officially present the Governor’s Hometown Project Award during an online event on April 20, 2021.
