Williams Honored with the reverend James e. allen award for Service to the community

Project Acclaim made a surprise announcement at the Joliet-Area Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service held on Monday January 16th at Joliet Central High School. “It shall be of no surprise to people in this room that I am here to give Ericka Williams, the co-founder and organizer of this Day of Service, the Reverend James E. Allen Award for Service to the Community,” Project Acclaim member Jayne Bernhard announced to a crowd of over 200 people.

The Reverend James E. Allen Award for Service to the Community recognizes individuals who show selfless devotion of community by direct action that is above and beyond the usual call of duty as well as perform actions that have a community-wide impact and enhance the community. Honored individuals also perform actions that promote Project Acclaim’s Mission. Project Acclaim was founded in 1985 by the Reverend James E. Allen as a civic pride recognition organization. Its mission is to promote a positive image of the Joliet area and its people, engage residents and organizations to make their neighborhoods better, and partner with anyone or any organization working toward the same end.

Ericka is the Co-Founder of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, along with R. Dale Evans. When R. Dale moved out of state, Ericka kept the legacy of service alive by working with Joliet Township High School. “The MLK Day of Service is 16-year tradition in the Joliet-area community, drawing between 750 to 1,000 volunteers who complete service projects for organizations throughout the community,” said Ericka Williams. “It is an event for all ages where families can volunteer sided-byside. Whatever the age or ability, there is a project for everyone as we make our community stronger while honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”

She estimated that in the 16 years, the community has come together to complete 17,110 hours of service donated to 369 community projects.

Projects can include painting, cleaning, organizing, volunteering in food pantries, making blankets for the homeless, decorating valentines for veterans and much more. “We invite residents of all ages and backgrounds to help advance Dr. King’s vision of equality and opportunity for all by making the holiday a ‘A Day On, Not A Day Off,” said Ericka Williams.

Ericka is also a leader of the annual Family Fun Fest held at the Joliet Slammer’s Ball Park in the summer. The event is free to the public and includes community resources for children and families, free food, music, games, and more.

Ericka Williams serves as the Manager of Family and Child Support Services for Catholic Charities of Joliet. In this role she goes above and beyond, donating hours of her time to plan community events while serving as a volunteer.

She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. where she dedicates service throughout the community.