Darien Names Citizen Of The Year

DARIEN, IL – Darien named a longtime volunteer who is involved with the Darien Woman's Club as the 2024 Citizen of the Year.

Valerie Kazich and her husband, Mark, have been residents of Darien for 37 years. Their son, John, is also a resident.

She became involved with the Woman's Club in 2002, holding various leadership positions in the group, according to a city news release.

In 2012, Kazich started the Holiday Soap Collection. She also has bagged and delivered holiday food baskets for the Darien Lions Club. She helps wrap toys for the Lions Club's Christmas giving.

According to the news release, Kazich has also participated in:

• Darien’s Rotary Club project "Food for Kids Backpack" program
• Recycling collection programs, including "Soles for Souls," "Free the Girls," pill bottles, corks and styrofoam
• Children's Art Fair
• "TLC Camp," a one-week program for children with cancer
• Scholarship program
• Darien Historical Society plant sale

Kazich is also involved with the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel parish.

She was a special education teacher at Oak Forest High School for 27 years.

"Val Kazich's tireless commitment and positive influence make her an exemplary choice for this prestigious recognition," the city said in the news release. "Indeed, Valerie is and will continue to be one of the many shining stars in Darien making Darien 'a Nice Place to Live.'"

Darien officials announced her selection as Citizen of the Year at Tuesday's City Council meeting.

A city committee takes nominations for Citizen of the Year. Darien posted the nomination letter for Kozich online.