The mission of the Poet Laureate program is to celebrate poetry, creative writing, and the arts and enrich Urbana’s diverse community through outreach activities. Each year, the selected Urbana Poet Laureate is tasked with creating a unique artistic legacy that elevates the importance of creative writing as an art form.
The UPD stated that DORS reflects their commitment to transparency, accessibility, and service. They hope to modernize, connect with the community, and use resources more effectively. DORS helps reduce call volumes, improves report accuracy, and allows officers to focus on emergency response.
Community excitement is building as the 2025 Christie Clinic Illinois Race Weekend approaches, set to take place April 24–26. Thousands of runners, spectators, and volunteers will descend on Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy for one of the region’s most anticipated spring events.
The Voices of Freedom Speakers Showcase is back for its second year on Saturday, April 26, at the Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center. Hosted by Remind to Shine Motivational Media, the event highlights powerful, real-life stories from formerly incarcerated individuals who now serve as mentors, leaders, and advocates for change.
As prom season approaches, local teens and community members have something special to look forward to: the return of the C-U Prom Giveaway, a completely free event offering prom attire and accessories for all.
A unique and beloved tradition continues this month in downtown Champaign as the fourth annual #cuPromGiveaway kicks off, offering students the chance to pick out prom dresses, suits, shoes, accessories, and more — entirely free of charge.
They designed and painted three large-scale murals together. The project offered connection, growth, and a sense of purpose—both for the artists and the youth involved. The murals gave an enriching splash of color, with a heavy impact to the youth within those spaces.
The program is free, but registration is encouraged so you can be made aware of inclement weather-related location changes. Visit go.illinois.edu/SpringWalks for more information or register.
“We are committed to protecting and supporting children who have experienced abuse,” said Elizabeth Lebs, Family Advocate. “By opening our doors to the public and the media, we aim to raise awareness of the services available and encourage our community to take an active role in child abuse prevention.”
Motorists can expect delays and should allow extra time for trips through this area. To avoid the work area, when feasible, use of alternate routes should be considered. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to changed conditions and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits, refrain from using mobile devices and be alert for workers and equipment.