Nominations are still being accepted for the Say Yes! To Youth Success campaign.

Diana Baldi, a Libertyville resident and a co-chairwoman of the campaign, said the campaign is a way to honor local children and teens for their positive actions.

“When we did a youth summit last April and asked kids what way they could think of that they were recognized, the only way they could thing of was the honor roll,” Baldi said. “So we banded together to think of a way to make sure the kids were recognized for the good things they do.”

Anyone from a parent, to school staff to leaders at faith-based organizations can nominate a local student they know.

Nominations can be made for simple accomplishments, such as a student caring for their younger siblings, or being a positive role model, Baldi said.

The campaign, which is sponsored by the Lake County After School Program began in Waukegan.

“From there, it really took off like wildfire to other Lake County towns,” Baldi said. “Our goal was to take what was successful in Waukegan and stretch it across Lake County.”

This campaign is intended to bring together the many facets of communities in recognizing the achievements of its younger residents.

Mayor Terry Weppler proclaimed next week as Say Yes! to Youth Success Week.

“It’s important to take time to recognize the countless contributions that young people in Libertyville make to the well-being of our community,” Weppler said. 

Also, all nominations will be included in a list of successful youth on Illinois Destination Imagination website, www.illinoisdestinationimagination.org and several of them will be selected to be honored by a local panel, which includes Baldi, Brian Sykes, owner of Whatsit & Doohickey Co. in Libertyville, and Pat Garrity, co-chairwoman of the Say Yes! To Youth Campaign.

The Lake County After School Coalition will also honor several youth from Lake County on the website next week at www.lakecountyafterschoolcoalition.org.

Nomination forms are available on the Village of Libertyville’s website at www.libertyville.com, and can be dropped off at Whatsit & Doohickey Co., 346 N. Milwaukee Ave. or e-mailed to idoILDI@gmail.com. The deadline is Sunday, Oct .10.

For more information, contact Baldi at idoILDI@gmail.com or 847-682-4093.