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PEORIA, IL (March 25, 2025) –– Join the Peoria Park District for a press conference and celebration marking the 10th anniversary of Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning Gift Shop at Peoria International Airport on Thursday, March 27, at 10:30 AM. Since opening in 2015, the shop has provided travelers with unique gifts, local products, and travel essentials—all while making a lasting impact on adult education in Peoria.
The Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning, founded in 1994, is dedicated to providing accessible education opportunities for adult learners. The Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning Gift Shop at PIA was established as an innovative way to support this mission, with proceeds directly funding GED preparation and tutoring services. Over the past decade, the shop has empowered countless individuals by helping them achieve their educational goals and build brighter futures.
“Ten years ago, grant options were slim,” said Hedy Elliott-Gardner, Director of the Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning. “I wanted to find a way where I could teach more and fundraise less. I researched different not-for-profits around the country and stumbled upon a few organizations that had a hybrid of a for-profit/not-for-profit model. The business raises money to support their services.” From this idea, the gift shop at Peoria International Airport was born, a unique solution that has since flourished and made a significant impact.
Emily Cahill, Executive Director of the Peoria Park District, highlighted the program’s success and growth: “Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning Gift Shop at PIA is a perfect example of how innovation and community partnerships can create lasting change. By supporting adult learners, this initiative not only strengthens our community but also aligns with our mission to provide opportunities for education and workforce development. I’ve been proud to work alongside Hedy as we’ve created a space that empowers individuals and drives positive change. We are ecstatic to celebrate this milestone, knowing that this endeavor has had a profound impact on lives within our region.”
A special thank you goes to the Gilmore Foundation for its financial support, including funding all shop signage, which has been instrumental in sustaining and promoting this impactful initiative. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the Peoria International Airport for providing a welcoming and supportive environment for this unique partnership to thrive over the last decade.
Join us at General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport to commemorate this incredible journey and recognize the community’s role in supporting education through the Moonlight Coalition for Adult Learning Gift Shop at PIA.
Please note, this event is on the air side of the airport. All guests and press will have to go through airport security. As such, please do not bring TSA-prohibited items.
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