Plan to expand DCFS’ Department Scholarship Program sponsored by State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) gained senate approval today. The measure requires DCFS to provide scholarships for a minimum of 53 students every year.

“Teens under DCFS’ care will have a greater opportunity to attend college without worrying about the financial strain,” said Hunter, Majority Caucus Whip. “We’ve seen the costs of college skyrocket, incomes slash and a gap widen between high school graduates and students with higher degrees. This program would help close that gap.”

This month, the Illinois Senate passed bipartisan plan designating 2015 as the Year of Service and Engagement.   Sponsored by State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago), the resolution declares to strengthen infrastructure of volunteerism in the State.

“Volunteerism is a part of Illinois’ history and culture,” said Hunter, Majority Caucus Whip. “We’re a state built on the foundations of service and organized movements that have influenced the rest of the country.”

Plan to legalize public self-administration of insulin sponsored by State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) gained house approval on Friday. The measure would reduce public health scares for diabetics and guardians of children with diabetes.

“As a child, I had to learn how to administer my mother’s insulin shot,” said Hunter, member of the Illinois Legislative Diabetes Caucus. “I understand firsthand that timely insulin injections can save lives.”

From district office interns to young professionals, minority students enter public service and the business world thanks to Chicago State University’s Public Policy Scholars Program collaboration with State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago).

“Coming from Robert Taylor Holmes, I understand that we have very intelligent people, eager to learn, who need a chance,” Hunter said. “Someone gave me a chance. Now I’m doing the same for the next generation.”