Since 1959 the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce has had the distinct pleasure of awarding a Citizen of the Year Award to an individual/individuals, who the Chamber and the community recognize as a contributor to the betterment of life in the City of Mattoon, who has dedicated time, talent and energy in service to the residents of the Mattoon area. In order to find the best and most deserving recipient of this prestigious Citizen of the Year award, the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce goes to the membership and the general public for nominees.

Criteria:

  • Any person who is 18 years of age or older and living in Mattoon is eligible.
  • This award is intended to recognize and celebrate the great volunteer spirit in Mattoon.
  • Service to be recognized should have been of benefit to the community or to society in general.
  • Service to be recognized should have been performed over and above the normal duties of one’s salaried or paid position.
  • Service need not to have been confined to a single year but should be recent enough to have current significance.

The Mattoon economy is dependent on small business to thrive and prosper. Small businesses contribute to our local economy by bringing growth and innovation to the community. Small businesses attract talent who invent new products or implement new solutions for existing ideas. Larger businesses often benefit from small businesses within the local community, as many large corporations depend on small businesses for the completion of various business functions through outsourcing. Small businesses also invest and volunteer in the community’s social service agencies, civic functions and events. The Mattoon Chamber is seeking recognition for a small business that exemplifies all of these virtues.

Criteria:

  • Any small business with less than 100 employees that have their home office located in Mattoon, IL.
  • This award is intended to recognize and celebrate the great business achievements and community involvement of a local small business.
  • The small business to be recognized should also have been of benefit to the community or to society in general.
  • The small business’s accomplishments do not need to be confined to a single year but should be recent enough to have current significance.