A Connected Region With Real Strengths

The county’s rich, fertile soil supports a strong agricultural tradition that continues to serve as a backbone of the local economy. The county is strengthened by its diverse and welcoming communities. People from different backgrounds contribute to its culture, resilience, and sense of belonging. Job opportunities span agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, and housing prices are generally lower than in surrounding metropolitan areas, making homeownership more attainable.

By offering a nexus of job training at Kankakee Community College, STEM programming in our high schools, access to major research and engineering Universities, and enough available land for Gotion Illinois to be an off-grid Gigafactory that produces a truly circular product.

The business leaders, academic leaders, and community leaders all work for the greater good of the community. It’s very evident with the support we received to pass our referendum in the fall of 2024. BBCHS is a unique learning environment. We have the sense of community of a small school with the opportunities of a large school. Our teachers care deeply about student success, and our parents are great partners. The Board of Education has a strong vision for academic success, and the administration team is committed to continuous improvement.

This is a place where we collaborate – we work together, and we care for each other – to the mutually benefit of everyone. Kankakee is a place that honors and respects the many institutions and organizations which enhance quality of life, and we are always intentional about supporting and strengthening them together.

That trust propels us to invest in advanced technology, recruit top-tier physicians, expand access to care, and embrace innovation that meaningfully improves the care we deliver to the community. Our commitment ensures progress without losing sight of what matters most: to deliver the highest quality and compassionate care, close to home.