2022 Campaign Video from Kent Wade
In what ways have you been involved with United Way?
I have been involved with the United Way since 2009. I started off telling my story how United Way has impacted my life for the better. Currently, I sit on the Board of Directors for the United Way of Kankakee and Iroquois Counties.
What inspired you to become involved with United Way?
The United Way impacted my life by assisting agencies that helped me get control of my story and be able to have the basic needs of living. So I made it my mission to give back.
What aspect of United Way's work do you connect with most?
I connect most with the community Impact committee. It relates to my story and it is important for someone who can relate to what the community to represent the community.
Why do you think it's important to support United Way's mission?
It is important to support the mission of the United Way because that is what it means to be a community. Working together to ensure a strong future together by helping assist those in need.
Who is Kent Wade?
Kent Wade (KW), also known as “The Library Guy”, has been in Kankakee county since 1999. Kent has over 14 years of library and customer service experience. After obtaining a GED (2005) and an Associates from Kankakee Community College (2012), there was a fire lit that still burns strong for sharing the value of education, especially from the community college level.
Since 2009, Mr. Wade has been using public speaking, motivational speaking, emceeing, facilitating and storytelling to cultivate difficult conversations in regards to leadership. From working with youth to empowering professionals, the mission is for others to regain their AMBITION despite the heaviness of life. During the summer of 2018, Shake the Fear, a public speaking workshop geared toward overcoming the fear of speaking, was launched. The STF workshop has enhanced the abilities of speakers and professionals throughout Illinois! Wade’s ability to be a change agent earned him a Kankakee County 40 Under 40 award (2016). Kent’s love of giving back has led to him serving as the first Black officer on the Kankakee Public Library’s Board of Directors, as well as serving on the board of Directors of United Way.
KW is CEO of Lift with Ambition LLC, a company focused on helping others grow in telling their stories and healing their way as a Master of Ceremony and Keynote Speaker. In 2020, Mr. Wade launched his Shake the Fear Gear Tee and Hooded Sweatshirt brand. Kent Wade is a proud husband, father to four and uncle to many.