The Serve Illinois Commission is reminding all interested townships, villages, cities and counties that there is still time to apply for the Governor’s Hometown Awards. These awards give formal recognition to those who help contribute to their community and increase the quality of life though their projects. These projects need to have strong volunteer support, meet a need and make a definitive impact. Applications need to be in by August 1st. the projects that used volunteer help also needs to be between January 1st 2014 through December 31st 2016. For more information, in regard to the program criteria or the application process, visit Serve.Illinois.gov. Some of the 11 winners last year included Mt Vernon for their Lifeboat Alliance, Mascoutah for their Little Indians Youth Football Program, Edwardsville for a Boundless Playground and McLeansboro for a Kid’s Kingdom. The Serve Illinois Commission is a 40-member board who was appointed by the Governor and administered by the Illinois Department of Public Health.