Bill Clevenger

Family:

Wife, Candace; sons, Scott, Jonathan, Stephen and Michael.

Current position/responsibilities:

As executive director of the Decatur Park District, I am fortunate to have been entrusted with leadership of one of the most outstanding park districts in Illinois. With a $22 million budget and a staff of 550 full-time and seasonal employees, the Decatur Park District operates the DISC, Decatur Airport, three golf courses, Rotary Park softball complex, Decatur Soccer Complex, 60 athletic fields, 2,000 acres of park land, 2,000 Decatur Airport acres, Fairview Pool, Scovill Zoo, Big Creek Riding Center, Fairview Park Tennis Center and a banquet, food and beverage business. Each day our team, comprised of the Decatur Park Board and staff, strives to be a vital participant in the effort to attract new residents and businesses, as well as make our community a dynamic, vibrant place for all who currently call Decatur home.

What you like best about working or living in the community:

The beauty of working and living in Decatur is that we enjoy a small-town atmosphere in a mid-sized city. People here have a great work ethic and when they're involved, they're committed. It's gratifying to develop lasting relationships with co-workers, business leaders, school parents and volunteers, since we all share the goal of making our community a great place to live, work and play.

Why did you become so involved in the community:

Over the years, my family has lived in a number of locations: Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana and Illinois. The best way to meet people and make a community better is by getting involved. With four boys, Candi and I personally know the value of volunteerism and see it as an opportunity to help support youth activities. Volunteering has also allowed me to keep in touch with what my Decatur neighbors are thinking and how the park district can continually improve to meet their needs.

What has been the greatest benefit you've realized from your community involvement:

It is rewarding to play a small part in the development of new programs and facilities to improve the lives of children and families. When I attend one of our many recreation, sports, arts and fitness programs, or simply see individuals and groups using the parks, it brings home to me why I have such a passion for my profession.

What would you tell others - especially young people - to encourage their involvement in community groups/activities?

A community is what you make it. In volunteering your time and unique talents, you make Decatur a better place for all. You also help ensure the longevity of events and activities - such as Scovill Zoo, Decatur Celebration, Tate & Lyle Duramed Futures Tour Players Championship, Decatur Junior Golf, MidState Soccer, Redbird Rookies Baseball, summer road runs, Ursula Beck Pro Tennis Classic and the new Come Together, Let's Walk event - that might not be possible without the assistance of many generous volunteers.

The person who has had the biggest influence on you and why:

My parents, Charles and Ruth Clevenger, instilled in me a strong work ethic and continually stressed the importance of education and community involvement.

What you still hope to accomplish:

I hope to see our community make great strides toward revitalization, and we're moving in the right direction! Our interagency collaboration has never been better. With a new Nelson Park lakefront, network of bike trails and enhanced opportunities for recreation, we will better attract and retain young professionals and enhance the quality of life for people of all ages and abilities.

Your favorite stress reliever:

Golfing with my four sons and working out at the DISC. As an endorsement for golf, how often do you get four uninterrupted hours of enjoyment with your adult children?

Quote to live by:

It's pretty simplistic, but to this day, I remember my grandfather saying, "Just remember: Always engage your mind before your mouth."