In 2025, University of Illinois Extension actively supported the Delta Regional Authority’s (DRA) Propel Program, by providing structured programming and direct technical assistance for three communities within the DRA service area — Eldorado, Mounds, and Murphysboro. Among other efforts, Susan Odum — a State Specialist serving Southern Illinois — helped leaders in these participating communities to pursue external grant funding. For example, Odum worked with the City of Eldorado to prepare grant applications that addressed critical infrastructure needs. As a result of this assistance, the City of Eldorado was awarded $795,290 in 2025 from the Delta Regional Authority for a flood control infrastructure project which the city used to repair and upgrade the flood infrastructure around Ferrell Hospital — the city’s critical access hospital. In 2024, severe flooding forced that hospital to close for several months. Susan Odum provided additional technical assistance that helped the City of Eldorado put together a successful Delta Catalyst Fund application, resulting in a $75,000 grant to purchase equipment for the sewer department.
Mark White, University of Illinois delivering data training in Harrisburg, IL
In addition to the direct technical assistance, University of Illinois’ Community and Economic Development (CED) program also organized and delivered a Data Training for Local Government Workshop for regional stakeholders. Delivered by Mark White and Zach Kennedy, this day-long, hands-on workshop brought together leaders from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors to build practical skills in locating, interpreting, and applying public data.
Additional Information: