The Gurnee Days Committee is proud to announce Gurnee resident, Gale Graves, as the 2026 Gurnee Days Honoree.

Born into a family that believed the greatest contribution a person can make is helping others, Gale Graves is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families and strengthening communities.

Gale began her professional journey in social services in Detroit. After earning her MBA and relocating to Lake County, she spent more than a decade in the healthcare industry in consulting, marketing, and operations leadership roles. While volunteering as an Adult Literacy Tutor, she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education, inspiring her to return to nonprofit work and community service. She spent over a decade focused on creating adult education programs driven by community needs and securing critical grant funding while at the Waukegan Public Library and serving as an Adult Education Adjunct at the College of Lake County.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Gale co-chaired the African American Community Partnership Group of Lake County, helping coordinate outreach, education, and mitigation efforts in disproportionately impacted communities. She also administered more than $1 million in CARES Act funding to support community-based public health initiatives.

Today, as Vice President of Community Impact for United Way of Lake County, Gale leads education and community resiliency programs, including 211 Lake County, connecting thousands of residents each year to critical resources and support services. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she brings together organizations, volunteers, funders, and community members to create lasting community impact.

Gale served five years on the Board of Cool Learning Experience. In 2025, she was recognized by the Lake County Board through an official proclamation honoring her contributions to local children, families, and communities and appointed to the inaugural Gurnee Cares Commission, a community initiative dedicated to strengthening local nonprofits and amplifying their impact on Gurnee’s community members. In 2026, she was named a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major for Justice Honoree for her commitment to advancing equity and opportunity. 

Gale is the proud mother of David, a Warren Township High School graduate who serves in the United States Marine Corps Reserve while pursuing a career in welding. Although her parents are no longer here to celebrate this honor, their values of service and hard work continue to inspire her belief that when communities come together to support one another, everyone can succeed.

Gale’s dedication and positive influence on the Gurnee community will be honored at the Gurnee Days annual testimonial reception on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Warren Township Center. On Friday, August 7, a meet and greet with Gale will take place at 7 p.m. Additionally, Gale will serve as the Grand Marshal of the Gurnee Days parade on Saturday, August 8.

We are proud to present this year’s SOFIE Full-Time Employee of the Year award to Katie “The Plant Lady” Cook, a team member who consistently demonstrates outstanding performance, professionalism, and dedication to Gurnee Park District and the community we serve.

Katie approaches every interaction with positivity, authenticity, and genuine care for others. She creates meaningful experiences and represents Gurnee Park District with warmth, compassion, and pride, no matter who she is working alongside, be it fellow team members, residents, community partners, or volunteers. Her ability to connect and create welcoming environments continues to make an impact throughout our organization.

Katie takes tremendous pride in her work, consistently leading through accountability, dependability, and follow-through. From coordinating community events and beautification efforts to supporting daily operations, she continually steps forward, embraces responsibility, and exceeds expectations. Her leadership and attention to detail help ensure projects and programs are impactful, organized, and reflective of the District’s high standards. And not only does she do this, she does it with a smile and genuine enjoyment.

Known for bringing enthusiasm, creativity, and energy into everything she does, Katie has a unique ability to turn everyday moments into memorable moments. Her passion for serving others is evident in every interaction, and her positive attitude has an uplifting effect on both staff and the community alike.

Katie is also deeply committed to teamwork and supporting others. She actively encourages and mentors fellow employees, particularly new and seasonal staff members, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed, supported, and valued. Her willingness to collaborate, volunteer for additional responsibilities, and contribute to organizational initiatives speaks volumes about her character and commitment to the District.

In addition, Katie continually seeks opportunities for growth and improvement, bringing new ideas, knowledge, and best practices back to the organization. Her contributions extend well beyond her assigned role and positively influence workplace culture, community engagement, and department success.

Katie has become a respected and recognizable presence within the Gurnee community, earning admiration from residents and colleagues alike through consistency, humility, and an unwavering commitment to service. If there is one individual who truly represents what it means to “bleed Park District green,” it is Katie Cook. Katie’s dedication, leadership, positivity, and passion for serving others make her exceptionally deserving of recognition as the Gurnee Park District’s Full-Time Employee of the Year.