Social Work

The head of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services said the agency has made big gains in reducing chronic staff shortages this year.

Domestic violence, experimental theater, the corrections system, the environment, municipal government — you name it, Carol Reitan made it better. She was also the first female mayor of Normal.

More than five years into a worsening behavioral health workforce shortage, the county, community partners and local colleges are still trying to recruit new workers and bounce back.

The allegations of ministerial impropriety, resignation of the senior minister, and announcement of an investigation into potential misconduct that has roiled Eastview Christian Church in Normal this week will have long-lasting consequences. According to experts in churches that have experienced similar tribulation, there may even be impacts to other congregations in Bloomington-Normal.

Every so often on WGLT's The Leadoff podcast, we'll bring you the story of an unsung community servant who's making Bloomington-Normal a better place.…