United Way of South Central Illino0is (UWSCI) has been awarded a $21,000 Healing Illinois grant from the Field Foundation of Illinois and the Southern Illinois Community Foundation. This grant will support the United in Diversity program, a two-day cultural celebration focused on fostering racial healing, unity, valuing lived experiences, and honoring the diverse histories of communities across Southern Illinois. The event will take place on August 8th and 9th, 2025 and with a goal of being an engaging and transformative experience for the entire community.
On Friday, August 8th, the program will begin with a community dinner in Centralia, bringing together 150 participants to hear keynote speaker A’ric Jackson, whose motivational message emphasizes unity, self-love, and racial healing. After the speech, participants will enjoy a “breaking bread” dinner and will have a chance to speak with Jackson.
Saturday, August 9th, the festival will transform the newly opened, Mt. Vernon Commons Park, into a Vibrant, Multicultural celebration. The festival will include Cultural Booths, Live performances, Interactive Activities, U of I Extension Session, Children’s passport, Art Exhibit and Awards, Special Demonstrations, with a closing Keynote by A’ric Jackson.
