The Illinois Jaycees selected Kirsten Evans of Bloomington and Sam Guillory of Normal as honorees of its Outstanding Young Persons of Illinois awards program. The Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) program annually recognizes young people throughout Illinois who excel in their chosen fields, endeavors and show a great commitment to their respective communities. Evans, 32, is being recognized for Business, economic, and/or entrepreneurial accomplishment and Guillory, 35, for Contribution to children, world peace, and/or human rights.
Kirsten Evans is a successful and award-winning realtor in the Bloomington area. She has volunteered her time and expertise to support various charitable organizations and community initiatives. She is an active committee member of Rotary and previously served as the president of the local Lions Club. Evans graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science, and she working toward a Master of Science from Concordia University.
Sam Guillory is Vice President of Development and Public Relations for The Baby Fold, a nonprofit that offers adoption support, foster care, Autism services, special education schooling, early childhood intervention, and more across 28 Central Illinois counties. She is involved in many community organizations including the Bloomington-Normal Young Professionals, Kiwanis Club of Bloomington, and serves as Development Committee Chairman for an emerging 501c3 to help those suffering from eating disorders and disordered eating. She graduated from Illinois State University.
“I’m extremely honored to have been selected by the Illinois Jaycees as a 2024 Outstanding Young Person of Illinois,” said Guillory. “The award is not simply an accolade; it’s a catalyst that renews my sense of responsibility to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.”
“The Illinois Jaycees is proud to honor young active citizens for their accomplishments and contributions to their communities. I am confident our TOYP honorees will inspire young people throughout the state.” said Andi Whalen, 93rd President of the Illinois Jaycees.
The Illinois Jaycees will recognize this year’s honorees at an awards banquet on April 27, 2024 at the Embassy Suites in East Peoria, Illinois. The event is supported by friends and employers of the honorees, local Jaycee organizations, Illinois businesses including INB and the Illinois Jaycees Charitable Foundation.
Additional information can be found at www.illinoisjaycees.com/toyp-2024.
