Sadly, we don't often get the chance to brag about a young person doing extraordinary things in their community, because it doesn't happen often enough. Thank goodness there are awesome people like this week's Hometown Hero, Tyler Saunders of Warren, Illinois to restore our faith in the younger generations.

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What I think I love most about Tyler's story is that at just 21 years old, Tyler has already dedicated more time to serving his community than most people do in an entire lifetime, and that makes him more than worthy of this week's Hometown Hero honor!

Here is the nomination letter we received about Tyler from Mady Pax, also of Warren, Illinois;

Tyler Saunders at just twenty-one years of age has spent a majority of his life dedicating his time to his community without asking for a simple thank you in return. Throughout high school he was known for his hardworking personality volunteering his time, but the true hard work did not start until after high school. Tyler began his volunteering when he signed up for the Warren Volunteer Fire Department. Unless he is in the field or occupied with another one of his many tasks, he never misses a meeting, training night, or call. The fire department was not enough, Tyler soon became a driver for the Warren Ambulance. Alongside being a first responder, Tyler also volunteered his time to the local snowmobile club by putting out signs each year and spending his days and nights off fixing, maintaining, and grooming trails. Finally, he is a member of the JoDaviess County Fair board, Tyler has been a member of the fair for over three years now. Being a part of the fair board is not only one weekend out of the year, but also meetings once a week and volunteering your free time to make sure your community and the surrounding towns enjoy the fair. The best part of all is Tyler never ask for anything in return and would not trade it for the world.

This world needs SO many more people like you in it, Tyler. Thank you for inspiring us all to do better and be better. As a thank you, we would like to give you a $100 Amazon gift card courtesy of Gustafson's Furniture & Mattress with the hopes that you will find the time in your busy life to spend it on something that makes you smile.

Do you have someone special in your life that deserves next week's Hometown Hero honor? Is there a special teacher, neighbor, or friend that has gone out of their way to make your life easier?  Please tell us about them, here.

Past Hometown Hero Award Winners

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On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks. Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums. Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

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