Vermilion Advantage Releases Weekly Events Schedule

This is a quote that Connie Kimmel quoted during our interview, and she said she keeps it folded up in her wallet. She saw it in a magazine and since she has never found words that resonate more with how she sees the world. Connie has lived such a full life, from traveling the world to meeting some amazing people. She has been to Egypt, Tahiti, Denmark, Sweden, and others.

Connie is a Vermilion County native, growing up in the Oakwood school district. Connie attended Oakwood High School, DACC, University of Illinois, Illinois State, and Western Illinois, and she has a Bachelors in Sociology and a Master of Education degree. It is no surprise that she ended up becoming a teacher, and it just happened to be that District 118 was the place she wanted to be. She was quickly given a position at Fairchild Elementary before it was closed. After, she was given the choice of where she wanted to be, and Southview was that place. She taught sixth grade there for around twenty years, and she did one year in seventh but missed having a set class every day. Connie says, “I loved seeing the same kids all day because I could see them grow into amazing human beings.” Connie had decided to teach in Danville because she had always wanted to go to Danville High School but being in Oakwood district, she wasn’t able to. When she was given the position at Fairchild, she was so ecstatic, she didn’t even know where the building was located, but she knew it was where she was meant to be. It was all perfect timing because she had called to inquire as the principal was in the office and looking at her file.

After thirty-three years of teaching, Connie decided to retire. However, retirement did not suit Connie. She is the kind of human being that loves to see people grow, so she jumped into a part-time role at the library in the children’s department. Connie says, “I love teaching and when I retired, I missed the kids, the environment, and watching them (the kids) grow into amazing people.” She hadn’t planned to work at the library either, it had just fallen into place, like many other things in her life. It is a good thing that she is in this position though because through her work she makes a difference in so many lives. A friend says, “Connie goes above and beyond; she has such a kind heart, and my daughter looks forward to seeing Miss Connie every week.” This is from the person that nominated Connie, and after interviewing her, I can say she does go above and beyond for people. Whether it is taking cookies to her classes, or just sitting and listening, Miss Connie makes you feel seen and heard.

Connie recalls, “I have loved it all, teaching, and meeting people… This town is just so full of beautiful people.” Connie is sure to make everyone feel special as she sees the world in such a beautiful light that not many people can see. Connie can make even the smallest achievement feel large because of how she connects with people. This woman wakes up with the goal to make someone smile every day, and I can say without a doubt she achieves that goal. I encourage everyone to thank Connie Kimmel for the work she does with the children in the community. After meeting with her, the world seems like a much brighter place.

By Erin Gregory

Vermilion Advantage & STEP UP hosts Community Resource Rally and Blood Drive. To be a vendor, find out more here. For more information about the event, click here.

Vermilion Advantage is excited to announce the awardees of the Back to Business Grants – see press release here

BIGG Tip of the Week: Want a Simple Way to Boost Your Outlook? Author Martin Seligman suggests the “What Went Well Exercise.” Set aside ten minutes before going to sleep. Write down three things that went well that day and state why. List whatever comes to mind. For example: My co-worker made coffee…because she’s thoughtful. It may feel awkward at first but stick with it. Research shows a positive outlook leads to BIGG success. Get more tips from BIGG Success here

Doug Ireland – Prudential Advisors Let’s work together to create a strategy that can help you meet your financial goals and overcome your challenges. From retirement to insurance, including life, disability and long-term care, I am here to support you.

Contact me at 217-516-7778 or doug.ireland@prudential.com for a complimentary consultation.

DACC Student’s Cannon Movie Premieres November 1st, Documentary About Life of “Uncle” Joe Cannon. See press release here

Check out the official newsletter of DLO Musical Theatre here

DLO is surveying the community to gauge their favorite musicals from the 50’s until now! From the results, they will build a Mainstage Coffeehouse show! Take the survey here

East Central Illinois Community Action Agency VOCA Newsletter – see the October Newsletter here

The Rotary Club of Danville is accepting nominations for Person of the 2023 Vocational Service Person of the Year Award. See the news release here

Maestro Zielinski Opens Strong in DSO Concert – see press release here

Matt George Change Lives Save Lives Tour Coming to Danville – see press release here

TREP School holds Danville Pitch Contest – find more information here

Downtown Danville, Inc. hosts Maker Market at Kresge Park for Small Business Saturday on November 25th. Check out more information here and find out how to be a vendor!