Treasurer Michael Frerichs

Illinois is stronger because of the people who lead, serve, and inspire in communities across our state. During my office’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebration, we honored remarkable leaders making an impact in business, education, labor, government, athletics, the arts, and community service.

Watch the video to hear what this month means to them and celebrate the voices shaping our state.

Celebrating AAPI Trailblazers Our Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebration hono...

Today, we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and remember the families who carry their legacy forward.

Through Operation Purple Heart, my office has returned 18 Purple Heart medals to families of fallen service members. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of hearing powerful stories of service and sacrifice.

But our work is not finished. This Memorial Day, please join us on our mission to reunite every Purple Heart medal in our vault with the families who deserve them. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4s3kZ6a

https://bit.ly/4dn125c

www.youtube.com

Mila, our family dog, passed away about six months ago. I meant to share this news sooner, but losing her was harder than I expected.

When I was in first grade, I was bitten on the leg by a friend’s dog. That experience created a fear that followed me throughout much of my childhood. Before Mila, I definitely wasn’t a “dog person.”

But Mila changed that. She helped heal old wounds, challenged long-held beliefs, and brought more joy, warmth, and love into our family than I ever could have imagined. Our lives were fuller because she was part of them.

Sometimes growth comes from taking risks, breaking old habits, or opening ourselves to change, even when it feels uncomfortable.

Learn how Mila changed me in this week’s newsletter: https://bit.ly/49gdIIC