The Enhancing Elgin Committee of the Elgin Area Chamber's Elgin Development Group announces nominations are now open for the 2024 Elgin Image Awards. This prestigious program celebrates individuals, projects, and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the Elgin community, helping to promote why Elgin is a great place to live, work, learn, do business, get involved, visit, and enjoy.

The Elgin Image Awards honor those who are making a powerful difference in the City of Elgin by positively shaping the community’s image. Carol Gieske, CEO of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce said, “by celebrating those who elevate Elgin's image, we inspire others to continue building a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving community."

The awards will be presented at a special ceremony on Tuesday, October 29, at the Gail Borden Public Library. This annual event, hosted by the Enhancing Elgin Committee-a dedicated volunteer group focused on improving the quality of life in Elgin—recognizes excellence in various categories that highlight the best Elgin has to offer.

"The Elgin Image Awards are more than just accolades; they are a testament to the power of community spirit and the impact that dedicated individuals, projects, and organizations can have on our city's future,” said Denise Raleigh, Enhancing Elgin Co-Chair and Gail Borden Public Library’s Div. Chief Marketing, Dev & Comm.

Nominations are open to the public and can be submitted online. The deadline for submissions is Friday, October 4, at 5 p.m. A panel of judges will evaluate nominations based on the impact, creativity, innovation, and commitment of the nominees toward enhancing the Elgin community.

Award Categories are as follows:

1. Professional Rockstar: Nominate individuals who have significantly improved Elgin's image through their professional achievements, whether through lifelong dedication or emerging leadership.
2. Volunteer Extraordinaire: Recognize exceptional individuals whose volunteer efforts have had a profound impact on Elgin's image, either through long-term contributions or as emerging leaders.
3. Gamechanger Projects: Submit nominations for specific community projects that have positively influenced Elgin's image, showcasing innovation, creativity, and positive change.
4. Creating a Difference Groups: Nominate outstanding organizations or businesses that have contributed significantly to enhancing Elgin's image through their dedicated efforts.
5. Green Initiative/Sustainable Business of the Year: Acknowledge businesses or initiatives that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to environmental sustainability, contributing to a greener and more sustainable Elgin.
6. Excellence in DEI or Building Equity: Submit nominations for individuals, projects, or organizations that have shown outstanding dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in Elgin, fostering a more harmonious and inclusive community.
7. Youth Service Project: Encourage nominations for inspiring youth-led service projects by individuals aged 21 and under, showcasing the potential of young minds in shaping a better future for Elgin.