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Three Rivers Public Library Director Laurie Offerman has been named the recipient of this year’s Heart of the Community Award by Heartland Bank. The award was presented on November 20 during Heartland Bank’s annual connect@4 networking event, which was held in partnership with the Channahon-Minooka/Grundy County Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
Jessica Enervold, Retail Manager at Heartland, described the purpose of the award during her presentation: “The Heart of the Community Award honors an individual who selflessly gives back to those around them. This person moves the community with genuine empathy, letting their compassion guide every action. With a heart of gold, they serve quietly—without seeking recognition—but their impact is unmistakably felt.”
Offerman has lived in Minooka all her life and has worked for Three Rivers Public Library District for 16 years, including 12 years as director. She is active in various community programs such as Grundy County Land Use Toy Drives, Will County Green Holiday Lights recycling, Adopt a Senior program, and blessing basket drive. Offerman also serves as a member of the Minooka Lions Club and is currently president of the Rotary Club of Channahon-Minooka.
Upon receiving the award, Offerman said: “Thank you for this wonderful recognition! I need to give credit where credit is due, and that goes to my excellent coworkers at Three Rivers Library, who enable me to be able to do all the things outside of the library’s walls, as well as our very supportive Board of Trustees, who encourage our active participation in the community. Support your local library!”
The announcement came as a surprise to Offerman at connect@4, where she was joined by family members—including her parents and children—as well as co-workers and friends. Fellow Chamber members were also present to celebrate her achievement.
Enervold concluded by saying: “Laurie, thank you for being the person you are. Your generosity and kindness are evident to all of us here tonight, and we are grateful to have you as a friend and a member of this community.”
