How long and in what ways have you been involved with United Way?
This is my first year being involved on the United Way board!
What aspect of United Way's work excites and inspires you?
I think all aspects of United Way's work excites and inspires me. I do have to say that I really enjoyed being a part of this year's annual Community Investment grant process. It was amazing to see what organizations UW funds have directly impacted and how these organizations are putting those dollars to great use.
What inspired you to become involved with United Way?
I wanted to be involved with UW for sometime now but never really knew how or where to start. It wasn't until the end of 2022 that I decided to apply after hearing the UW Impact stories. I've always had a passion to be part of something that directly impacts our community and United Way does just that.
What would you say to others who haven't yet decided to give back through United Way?
Now is the perfect time!
More About Jakob Knox
Jakob is the Manteno Chamber of Commerce President & CEO and the Director of Marketing and Community Relations for the Village of Manteno.
Jakob works hard to promote and strengthen the local business community by forming positive and impactful working relationships while continuing to build upon and support our community’s business sector.
Born and raised in Limestone Township, Jakob is a 2017 Herscher High School graduate, and received his degree from Kankakee Community College. His passion for community ignited at sixteen years old when he was employed at the Bourbonnais Township Park District. In 2021 Jakob began his professional career at Milner Media Partners as a Marketing & Sales Account Executive.
Understanding the importance of community involvement and giving back Jakob serves on the Board of Directors for United Way of Kankakee and Iroquois Counties, is a member of the Manteno Rotary Club, and serves on the Auxiliary Board for the Kankakee County Museum.
Currently, Jakob resides in Bourbonnais with his partner Josh, an 8th-grade Special Education Teacher at Bourbonnais Upper Grade Center with their two dogs Ruby and Hazel. In his free time Jakob enjoys spending time with his friends and family, volunteering, caring for his plethora of house plants, building LEGOS, and tapping into his creative side.