Lisa McGlasson Has A True Passion For Helping Others: Local Heroes

JOLIET, Illinois — 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. We’re working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

This submission comes from Erin Ward who nominated Lisa McGlasson of Joliet.

Local hero’s full name

Lisa McGlasson

Local hero’s home state

Illinois

Local hero’s Patch

Joliet

How do you know the local hero?

I am the Volunteer Coordinator for Will County Emergency Management Agency. Lisa McGlasson is one of our Public Preparedness Volunteers.

What does the local hero do?

As a part of the Public Preparedness Group, Lisa specializes in speaking with visitors at public safety fairs, expos, and events about the importance of being prepared in the event of an emergency/disaster, before it strikes, through: informing about hazards and emergencies that may affect them or their family; encouraging the development of an emergency plan; encourage the collection and assembly of a disaster supplies kit; inform where to seek shelter from all types of hazards; inform of the community warning systems; learn what to do for specific hazards; practice and maintain your plan. Lisa brings a special flair and style to her events, with the ability to spin all kinds of topics into preparedness situations and learning opportunities.

Why do you believe the local hero should be recognized or honored?

Lisa has a true passion for helping others. She has spent her entire life serving her community and country through her jobs and through volunteering. Lisa joined the Will County Emergency Management Agency in the beginning of 2020, just before the pandemic hit. Not only has she assisted Will County EMA as a Public Preparedness volunteer, but she also assisted with the staffing of Will County's 3 Covid-19 Mass Vaccination Clinics.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the local hero?

I once asked Lisa what here favorite part about volunteering with us was. This is her response: "My favorite part of volunteering with the Will County EMA is being able to help my community, especially the children, be more prepared for emergency situations. Whether I’m talking to kids about getting a bag of medication and items in their shelter in place spot, the importance of safeguarding documents, or ensuring our seniors have medical information available for first responders, my goal is to help people face emergency situations in a way that leads to a more positive outcome. As a federal retiree, I was looked for a volunteer opportunity to use my training in emergency planning and preparing for catastrophic events, so the WCEMA is a great opportunity to help Will County residents experience emergency situations and return to normal quicker following a major event. The EMA is made up of response teams with tremendous skills who work with their counterparts throughout the county to address issues and support first responders. I am privileged to be a part of this team of dedicated professionals."

Lisa is a wealth of information, a dedicated professional, and a true joy to be around. She is a phenomenal mentor, leader, and inspiration to the entire team.

Thank you for all you do, Lisa McGlasson!

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Know someone making a difference in town? Nominate them here.