State Representative Maurice West

10/26/2026

This weekend, I received the People’s Champ Award at Live Free Illinois’ first statewide convening.

Live Free Illinois Illinois is committed to improving public safety, addressing gun violence, and transforming our criminal justice system. Right here at home, our Live Free Rockford chapter is carrying that work forward across our region, and I’m proud to stand alongside them.

Safer neighborhoods aren’t built by one person. They’re built by people who show up, speak up, and stay in the work together. Thank you to Live Free Illinois for this recognition, and to every advocate, organizer, and neighbor in Illinois doing this work every single day.

The fight for a safer, more just Illinois continues, not only here at home in Rockford, but in communities all across our state. I’m in it with you.

10/25/2026

10/22/2026

Congratulations. Brookview Elementary named Illinois 2026 governor’s Blue Ribbon School for excellence

Brookview Elementary School in Rockford has been named one of Illinois' 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon Schools, earning recognition for its success in closing achievement gaps among students.

10/22/2026

This morning, I was able to attend a press conference to announce the new Field House YMCA in Machesney Park. This facility and its programs are focused around childcare, education, community development, and economic opportunity for all those participating.

I also ran into my good friend, Antonio Ramirez. I have to give him a shout out as the new Executive Director of Early Learning at the YMCA of Rock River Valley. Congratulations my friend!

10/21/2026

Last year, Rockford showed up and showed out. 🥊🔥

The inaugural Rockford Hero Rumble was one of the most electric nights our city has seen, with our police officers and firefighters stepping into the ring, a packed house cheering them on, and every punch thrown for a cause bigger than any belt. I was proud to sponsor Team Fire, and I’m even prouder to say Team Fire brought home the win! 🏆

Now we’re BACK for the 2nd Annual Rockford Hero Rumble, and I’m honored to once again stand with Team Fire as their sponsor. The trophy is staying with us. 😉

But this night is about more than bragging rights. The proceeds benefit Carrie Lynn Children’s Center, which serves families across Winnebago and Boone Counties with care, protection, and a path to healing. That’s what community looks like: the people who protect us every day coming together to protect our children.

📅 Saturday, November 7
📍 Hard Rock Live Rockford
🚪 Doors at 6 PM | 🥊 Fights at 7 PM
🎟️ Tickets $29–$49: https://www.RockfordHeroRumble.com

Let’s pack the house again, Rockford. See you ringside! 🔥

10/21/2026

This morning, the United Way Rock River Valley (United Way Rock River Valley) unveiled their next steps in reaching 75% of third graders reading at or above grade level by 2034.

The plan includes continued and new partnerships with Rockford Public Schools, Harlem School District, after-school programs, early childhood learning providers, and more. It also focuses on parent engagement and access to reading mentors for our children. And new resources will be available as they have become the newest member of the Campaign for Grade Level Reading which does this work across the nation.

Literacy proficiency isn’t only an indicator of future academic success, but it is also an important tool in ending generational poverty.

10/20/2026

What a joy to celebrate the ribbon cutting for Rivers Christian Academy, downtown Rockford’s newest preschool and daycare!

Spaces like this matter. When we invest in our youngest learners, we invest in the future of our whole city. It’s a place where little ones can grow, learn, and be poured into with love and purpose, right in the heart of downtown.

Congratulations to the entire Rivers Christian Academy team on this milestone. Rockford is better because you said yes to this calling.

10/17/2026

AARC at Booker Grand Re-opening was inspiring! The theme was Legacy in Motion and, for me, it means that Booker is not afraid to dare greatly and rebrand themselves after 110 years of existence!

That’s legacy and leadership! I look forward to witnessing the impact this rebrand brings for our community.

Congrats AARC (African American Resource Center at Booker) at Booker!

📸: The Honorable Judge Patrick Yarbrough

10/16/2026

What a great way to start my morning.

10/14/2026

What a powerful morning at the Rise Breakfast with Rock River Valley Pantry!

For more than 50 years, Rock River Valley Pantry has been fighting hunger right here in Rockford. It all started in 1973 with one Rock Valley College student collecting food for families in need. Today, it’s a lifeline for thousands of households across our community.

Every month, the Pantry provides four days of nutritious, balanced meals to families facing unexpected hardship: children, seniors, veterans and working families, all served with dignity and respect. With two locations open five days a week, a small but mighty staff and a dedicated team of volunteers, they show up for us every single day.

Hunger doesn’t always look the way we expect. Rock River Valley Pantry meets people where they are and reminds them they are not alone. That is what community looks like.

Thank you to the staff, volunteers, donors and partners who made this morning possible, and who carry this mission all year long.

Visit https://www.rrvp.org to learn more.