Jesse White Awards over $550,000 Project Next Generation Grants
                                                  Funds Provide Technology and Mentors to Help At-Risk Youth

Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White awarded $559,358 in 2021 Project Next Generation (PNG) grants to 28 public libraries statewide. PNG is a mentoring program created by Secretary White and administered through Illinois public libraries. Project mentors work with middle and high school students as the participants develop skills to use various technologies, achieve success through project-based learning and gain life skills such as effective communication, goal-setting and conflict resolution.

“I am committed to improving the lives of at-risk youth in Illinois,” said White. “I established this innovative program when I first became Secretary of State to give students an opportunity to receive hands-on experience with the latest technological tools at their local library.”

PNG grant recipients include the following public libraries:

• Bradley Public Library District - $20,670
• Danville Public Library - $22,479
• Kankakee Public Library - $17,000

Projects were awarded grants from the Illinois State Library using federal Library Services and Technology Act funds provided by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Grants are awarded to public libraries serving culturally diverse, low-income and underserved populations.

94.1 WGFA