As the librarian at Cortland Elementary School, Leslie Leahy said she’s put a lot of effort into ensuring the library can be a welcoming environment for all. “I wanted this to be the center of the school,” she said.

If the thousands of animals that have spent time at the Tails Humane Society animal shelter in DeKalb could talk, they’d surely say Nancy Rigler is among their heroes. Rigler, 77, of DeKalb, has been a Tails volunteer for half a century.

"It’s been an interesting ride for sure." Nic Gaston started in transportation at Indian Creek. Now he's also a coach, head of facilities, a volunteer multiple times over.

There’s a saying that goes if these walls could talk, the stories they’d tell. The shelves in the DeKalb Public Library are filled with stories. Maybe some tell of longtime volunteer Paul Mandigo

Meet Anthony Tortoriello of DeKalb: A local videographer, photographer and drone operator dedicated to sharing his creative vision.

For some DeKalb County residents who don’t have family to spend holidays with, John and Julie Ahlbach are there for them with love, compassion and a meal.

Cherish Olayiwola and Veronica Garcia-Martinez, two of DeKalb School District 428’s own, were recently recognized by the state of Illinois for their service to students and their families.

A softball coach who shapes leaders. A principal who makes sure no kid goes cold. A mom who's also an EMT, a board member and a grad student. Meet more of DeKalb County's 2026 Everyday Heroes — nominated by the neighbors who see them shine

The Daily Chronicle honors the everyday heroes making a difference in DeKalb County through their hard work, kindness and dedication.