Leon M. Edwards is a development specialist for The Center for Prevention of Abuse, where he works to increase the agency’s financial resources through the cultivation and stewardship of current and prospective donors in Tazewell and Woodford counties. He is also responsible for promoting community awareness and education by representing The Center at community events.
When he began his role as development specialist, Edwards jumped in head first, introducing himself to the community, joining the Kiwanis Club, and visiting with donors. Displaying a strong drive for leadership, he volunteered to be The Center’s internal Heart of Illinois United Way chair, a role in which he continues to serve. He also co-chaired The Center’s Duck Race this year, working tirelessly—and always with enthusiasm—to make the annual fundraiser a tremendous success.
Edwards was a Heart of Illinois United Way Campaign Ambassador in 2013, and this year, he became an ambassador for the East Peoria and Pekin chambers of commerce, stepping up to the plate for the betterment of the greater community. He was recently invited to join the Heart of Illinois United Way Campaign Cabinet, in addition to becoming vice president of the Kiwanis Club of Pekin and chairing the organization’s Marketing and Communications Committee.
A 2013 graduate of the East Peoria Chamber of Commerce Leadership School, Edwards is a strong role model for children, serving as fundraising director and assistant t-ball coach for the Germantown Hills Athletic Association. He leads by example, using his trademark passion, thoughtfulness, perseverance, hard work and character to continually expand his leadership skills. Treating everyone with respect and eliciting the same enthusiasm from others, he is described as warm, with an enjoyable personality, and “simply a pleasure to have as a colleague.” iBi
