Community
Joliet, IL: 22 High School Cadets Help Preserve Local Landmark
Joliet, IL – Twenty two Joliet Central High School students stepped outside the classroom Saturday, October 24, to give back to their community, volunteering at the historic Old Joliet Prison while ga
By Erin Vale · 2026-10-29T09:32:53.432Z
Joliet, IL – Twenty two Joliet Central High School students stepped outside the classroom Saturday, October 24, to give back to their community, volunteering at the historic Old Joliet Prison while gaining hands on experience in leadership, teamwork and historic preservation.
According to information provided by Joliet Central High School, members of the school's JROTC Steelman Battalion participated in the volunteer effort, earning community service hours while contributing to the preservation of one of Joliet's most recognizable landmarks.
Students Help Preserve Joliet History
The Old Joliet Prison has long been an important part of the city's history, and maintaining the landmark requires continued community involvement.
For the participating cadets, the experience offered an opportunity to understand the importance of protecting historical sites for future generations.
The volunteer effort also reinforced the JROTC program's emphasis on citizenship, responsibility and service beyond the classroom.
JROTC Instructor Praises Cadets' Commitment
"Our cadets showed up ready to work and proud to be part of something bigger than themselves," said retired Army Lt. Col. Jodi Krippel, JROTC instructor at Joliet Central High School.
"The Old Joliet Prison is a landmark that tells part of our city's story. When cadets give their time to help care for it, they learn that service and citizenship are not just ideas we talk about in class. They are things we live out in our community."
Building Leadership Through Community Service
The Steelman Battalion regularly emphasizes opportunities that encourage students to develop leadership skills while making meaningful contributions to their community.
Saturday's volunteer effort demonstrated how local students can take an active role in preserving Joliet's history.
Beyond earning service hours, cadets gained a deeper appreciation for the role volunteers play in maintaining historic landmarks and ensuring they remain part of the community for years to come.