'She Has Put Others In Front Of Herself': Oak Park Hero

OAK PARK, IL — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. Together with Ring, we're working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Rosey McAdams, who nominated Colleen McAdams:

Name: Colleen McAdams

State: IL

Hometown: Oak Park

Hero's job: Education

If other, job: She works in the Oak Park elementary schools as an occupational therapist.

Relationship to nominee: My sister

Reason for recognition: Colleen started a virtual 10k fundraiser at the beginning of the pandemic that raised over $15,0000 in April/May. She has volunteered getting groceries for the elderly. She has been a vocal ally for black lives. Starting her first job as an OT.

One thing to know: Colleen is the most unselfish 25-year-old I know. Throughout the pandemic she has put others in front of herself, staying socially distant and masking up, only leaving the house to volunteer and peacefully protest for BLM.

Thank you for all you do, Colleen!

Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here. Read about other heroes from across Illinois here.

All photos included in this post are owned by identified third parties who have given Patch the right to use explicitly for the Patch Local Heroes series.