United in Service

Illinois America 250 is an inclusive, statewide effort to bring together Illinoisans’ diverse perspectives about our history–and our future–as we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.

Join people around the state in celebrating and commemorating this historic anniversary. Together, let’s envision the next 250 years of Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

Illinois United in Service volunteers can log their hours online with Serve Illinois, a program of the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), beginning Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026 – December 31, 2026. Volunteers who log hours will receive a special commemorative certificate for the nation’s 250th anniversary. 

“Serve Illinois is proud to celebrate America’s 250th birthday by bringing people together in service to one another,” said Serve Illinois Executive Director Andres Fernandez. “Volunteering and community service bring out the best of us, our communities, our state, and our nation.” In addition, organizations statewide can share volunteer events with Serve Illinois, enabling prospective volunteers to match with opportunities near them. Illinoisans can expect to learn about future volunteer events throughout 2026. Illinois United in Service is an initiative of the Illinois America 250 Commission and Serve Illinois.