Yesterday, we celebrated Easter, a time of renewal, hope, and new beginnings. As families and communities came together, I hope your day was filled with joy, reflection, and meaningful moments with loved ones.
Wishing you continued peace and blessings this spring season.
Topics below include:
- Mother’s Day Diaper Drive
- Hills’ Capitol Highlight: Going to the Top of the Capitol
- World Autism Month
- Darby’s District Highlight: Keith Mione Community Park
- Join us in Palatine Next Thursday
- Inspirational Teacher Essay Contest
Mother’s Day Diaper Drive
As Mother’s Day approaches, I’m hosting a Diaper Drive benefiting the Hope Center and supporting families in need across our community. As I continue my work to eliminate the diaper tax in Illinois through SB3869, we can also make a direct impact right here at home.
Donations of new, unopened diapers can be dropped off at my district office (795 Ela Road, Suite 208 in Lake Zurich) now through May 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
If you’re unable to drop off in person, we’ve created an Amazon wish list — items can be purchased and sent directly to my office. https://www.senatordarbyhills.com/amazon-wish-list/
Thank you for helping us support local moms and children.
Hills’ Capitol Highlight: Going to the Top of the Capitol
I had the opportunity to get a tour of the Capitol dome and climb to the top! I climbed 353 steps through the Senate Attic to the top of the nation’s tallest dome! An unforgettable experience seeing the history up close.
Watch the full video to see the behind the scenes of the Capitol dome tour here.
World Autism Month
This #WorldAutismMonth, I’m proud to stand with the autism community. As a member of the Illinois Legislative Neurodiversity Caucus, I co-sponsored SR0031— a bipartisan resolution encouraging K-8 schools to teach students about neurodivergence, including autism and ADHD.
Every child deserves to feel seen, understood, and valued in school. Together, we can #RedefinePossible for autistic people and ensure they have the opportunities they deserve.
Learn more and access the Autism Resource Guide here: autismspeaks.org/WAM
Darby’s District Highlight: Keith Mione Community Park
Exciting things are happening at Keith Mione Community Park Mundelein as construction officially gets underway.
Fencing went up today, marking the beginning of the park’s renovation project, an investment made possible in part by a $600,000 matching grant through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources OSLAD program.
This 107-acre space will see meaningful upgrades, including a new multi-use asphalt pad designed for wheelchair football, basketball, and even seasonal ice skating, along with a creative play area, additional trails, woodland restoration, and expanded parking.
I’m looking forward to seeing this transformation take shape and all the ways it will better serve our community. Click here for updates as progress continues!
Join us in Palatine Next Thursday
Connecting with our community is a top priority, and I am bringing my office to you. Stop by my traveling office hours to share what’s on your mind, ask questions, and get help with any state issues.
Location:
Palatine Library District, 700 N. North Ct. Palatine, IL 60067
When:
Thursday, April 9th from 5 PM – 7 PM
Inspirational Teacher Essay Contest
Teachers shape lives in ways that reach far beyond the classroom. I’m excited to launch my My Inspirational Teacher Essay Contest in honor of Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8). Students in the 26th District — submit your essays by April 23rd for a chance to recognize a teacher who’s made a difference in your life.
Two grand prize winners will receive $100 gift cards for school supplies! I can’t wait to read your stories!
See the full details here.
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As always, my office is here to help if you have questions or need assistance with anything. You can contact us here or call (224)662-4544.
Yours truly,
Senator Darby Hills