Posted on: January 14, 2026

The Glen Ellyn Park District and the Village of Glen Ellyn have earned the highest recognition in the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge program, Monarch Champion. Out of more than 55 Illinois communities that participated, Glen Ellyn was the only one in the state and one of just eight nationwide to achieve this status for 2025.

Overseen by the National Wildlife Federation, the program encourages communities to create and protect habitat for pollinators, especially the Monarch butterfly. Glen Ellyn completed an impressive 26 of the 30 recommended actions, exceeding the 24 required for Monarch Champion recognition.

This achievement reflects a true community effort. The Glen Ellyn Park District was recognized for its innovative nature education programs, habitat restoration, native plant sales, and demonstration gardens. The Glen Ellyn Public Library launched a Seed Library to support local growing efforts. At the same time, the Village expanded native and pollinator-friendly landscaping, updated ordinances to support milkweed, and promoted sustainable yard practices through the Conservation @ Home program. Support from regional partners, local garden clubs, students, and dedicated staff helped bring these initiatives to life.