Peoria County is seeking volunteers to help with the annual Central Illinois Emergency Expo, held at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie on July 25, 2024. The main event takes place from 4-7 p.m. A sensory sensitivity hour occurs from 2:30-3:30 p.m. in a nearby area.
We are looking for volunteers in two shifts, 1:30-4:30 pm and 4:30-7:30 pm, though we are flexible if you need to leave earlier or come at a different time.
The Emergency Expo features emergency vehicles and personnel from a multitude of Peoria County and Tazewell County agencies. Fire engines, law enforcement vehicles, bomb robots, search and rescue teams, helicopters, ambulances, utilities, water trucks, and so much more have all participated in past events. Families are encouraged to visit this free event and kids can get inside vehicles, try on equipment, and talk to the professionals that keep our community safe during emergencies and disasters.
Our first shift volunteers will help with moving coolers, setting up pop-up tents, setting out cones, and at 3 pm directing traffic as vehicles start to roll in. You'll be given a map and information in case any of the participating organizations have questions on setup. We will also have a safety vest for you to wear.
Our second-shift volunteers will stay in the Peoria County volunteer tent to hand out water to organizations, let organizations know when the pizza arrives, and answer questions from the public (where to get water, where to find bathrooms). We will also have a safety vest for you to wear. While volunteers must be at least 16 years old, volunteers' family members would be welcome to come out and enjoy the event during this time.
This event takes place outside, in the parking lot between Dick's Sporting Goods and Route 91. All volunteers should dress for the weather. Volunteers are encouraged to wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. This event will go on in light rain. In case of a storm, the event will be canceled.
Peoria County Government is the organizer of this free event. The contact is Gretchen Pearsall. (309) 412-1478
