Written by Noland Staff Friday, 16 April 2010 13:37
In 2006, the Prairie Valley Family YMCA launched "Activate Elgin", a Pioneering Healthier Communities initiative to encourage the residents of Elgin to adopt a healthier lifestyle. The YMCA and its partners focused on reducing obesity among children. Activate Elgin brings leaders from all sectors of the community together to support many projects, including a comprehensive state-of-health assessment, innovative healthy living programs, health and nutrition programs in elementary schools, community events to raise obesity awareness, and increased access to fresh fruit and vegetables. "I want to thank the YMCA for this award and for taking on childhood and adult obesity. The number of overweight or obese children has nearly tripled since the 1980’s," said Senator Noland. "I remain committed to helping the YMCA fight obesity, and I will continue to support healthy lifestyle legislation in Springfield." Beginning in 2008, the Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs Legislative Hero Award was designed to recognize and honor state policy makers who have gone beyond the call of duty to support their local YMCA. Fifty-two Illinois YMCAs are allowed to submit nominations, but only two legislators are selected for the award each year. "Senator Noland has been a strong supporter of the YMCA’s commitment to reducing obesity and related health conditions in Elgin. He has worked hard to provide the YMCA with funding to sustain our work, attended Healthy Kid’s Day and Elgin on the Move, participated in our Activate Elgin Summit and has agreed to serve on our Activate Elgin Advisory Council. Senator Noland has been actively involved and supportive on all levels of this work for several years and we are honored to award him this year’s Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs Legislative Hero Award," said Rick Reigner, President and CEO of the Prairie Valley YMCA. 
SPRINGFIELD—On Saturday, April 17, State Senator Michael Noland (D-Elgin) will receive the Illinois State Alliance of YMCAs Legislative Hero Award for supporting the Prairie Valley Family YMCA’s efforts to reduce obesity in Elgin.
Senator Noland Menu
22nd District
Years served: 2007 - Present
Committee assignments: Judiciary; Public Health; Criminal Law (Chairperson); Energy; Committee of the Whole; Licensed Activities; Subcommittee on Special Issues; Subcommittee on Transparency (Sub-Chairperson).
Biography: Bachelor's degree and MBA from the University of Illinois at Chicago; Law degree from John Marshall Law School. Served as a Corpsman in the United States Navy at the Great Lakes Naval Hospital. Community volunteer with local organizations protecting the environment and assisting homeless persons. Resides in Elgin with his wife, Veronica, and their two children.