Pride Incorporated Celebrates
60 Years of Community Pride

Pride Incorporated’s 2026 Annual Celebration was a meaningful evening of reflection, recognition, and gratitude as the organization marked 60 years of beautification, service, and community pride.

For six decades, Pride, Inc. has encouraged residents, businesses, and community leaders to take an active role in making the Riverbend a cleaner, more beautiful, and more welcoming place. This year’s celebration honored that history while recognizing individuals, families, businesses, and organizations whose work continues to reflect Pride’s mission.

Honoring the 2026 Award Winners

Board Member Emeritus: Pat Ackman

Pride Incorporated honored Pat Ackman as Board Member Emeritus for more than 20 years of devoted service to Pride, Inc.

Pat’s contributions include leading the Pride Eye Award Committee, chairing the Miles Davis Memorial Committee, serving on numerous subcommittees, and faithfully serving as Board Secretary. Her hands-on commitment to beautification, from planning to planting, has made her an invaluable part of the organization.

President’s Award: The Freer Family

The President’s Award was presented to The Freer Family: Mike and Margaret Freer, and Tim and Carrie Freer.

The Freer Family was recognized for their outstanding contribution to community beautification and service. In addition to their work with United Way’s Community Christmas and the Salvation Army, they have transformed rundown properties along North Alby Street into safe, attractive homes with well-maintained landscaping. Their work has helped strengthen neighborhood pride and improve quality of life in the Riverbend.

Pride Beautification Award of Achievement: Jared and Sarah Hansen, Eclipse Car Wash

The Pride Beautification Award of Achievement was presented to Jared and Sarah Hansen, owners of Eclipse Car Wash.

Jared and Sarah were honored for transforming a previously overlooked property behind Godfrey’s QT station into a clean, modern, and carefully designed car care destination. Their attention to landscaping, sustainability, property maintenance, and community support reflects a strong commitment to improving the neighborhood.

Outstanding Citizen Award: AltonWorks

The Outstanding Citizen Award was presented to AltonWorks.

AltonWorks was recognized for its work in revitalizing historic downtown Alton. Led by John and Jayne Simmons, AltonWorks is focused on creating a healthy, walkable, and thriving community through social-impact redevelopment. Their efforts have turned empty lots into spaces for food, recreation, and gathering, while transforming neglected buildings into innovative hubs that respect Alton’s historic character.

Legacy Award: Chuck and Joan Sheppard

The Legacy Award was presented to Chuck and Joan Sheppard.

Chuck and Joan were honored for their long-term commitment to beautification, volunteerism, and community service. Chuck’s career in civil engineering contributed to many public projects throughout the Riverbend, while Joan’s volunteer work has included service with the Alton School Board, Alton Little Theater, Lewis and Clark Community College’s “Rivers of Color” garden, the Miles Davis Memorial statue, and the Monticello Sculpture Gardens. Together, their dedication has left a lasting impact on area beautification and community pride.

A Celebration of People Who Show Up

The 2026 Annual Celebration was more than a look back at Pride Incorporated’s history. It was a reminder that beautiful communities do not happen by accident.

They are built by people who serve, plant, restore, volunteer, invest, and care enough to keep showing up.

Pride Incorporated is grateful to this year’s award winners, to everyone who attended the celebration, and to all who continue supporting the mission of making our community a place we can be proud to call home.

Here’s to 60 years of Pride — and to the work still ahead.