A Geneva library professional and a St. Charles fitness instructor were both recognized last weekend for their work making programming more accessible to adults with disabilities.

The Rising Lights Project held its Annual Gala on Saturday, May 9, at the Q Center in St. Charles, honoring community partners alongside participants and programs.

Lexy Rodriguez, Geneva Public Library: The library's Outreach Coordinator received one of two Inclusivity Impact Awards at the event, recognized for leading hands-on programming at Rising Lights including robotics lessons and an ongoing book club. Rodriguez has partnered with the organization since it launched five years ago.

"Rising Lights days are always a highlight of my week," she said during her acceptance remarks.

Mike Outlaw, Outlaw Strength: The other honoree has spent the past two years running monthly fitness sessions for Rising Lights adults — a program he calls Fun Fitness Wednesdays. Since getting involved, Outlaw has launched his own St. Charles business offering group classes and one-on-one training for individuals impacted by disability.

“I am incredibly grateful to be part of such an incredible community that truly cares about the growth of each individual,” he said at the event. "Leading Fun Fitness Wednesdays every month for the last two years has allowed me to see what real strength looks like.”

Rising Lights Project: The St. Charles-based nonprofit serves adults with disabilities and works with a range of community partners, including AID, Ampersand Community Services, Joshua Tree, Marklund, and Mid-Valley Special Education Cooperative. The annual gala serves as both a fundraiser and a celebration of the people and partnerships that make programs possible.

Rodriguez has previously received recognition from the Illinois Library Association, AID, and Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois for her outreach and accessibility work.

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