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IDHS Invites Fairgoers to Explore Programs, Resources, and Career Opportunities at the 2026 Illinois State Fair
Connecting communities with comprehensive human services and support during the Illinois State Fair
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 7, 2026
CONTACT
SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is excited to welcome visitors to its tent at the 2026 Illinois State Fair. From August 13-23 in Springfield, visitors can stop by the IDHS tent to meet staff, ask questions, and learn more about the programs, initiatives, and career opportunities offered.
The IDHS tent will feature interactive trivia, hands-on activities, and educational exhibits that showcase its impact across Illinois. Staff will be available throughout the fair to share information, answer questions, and connect visitors with resources. These include resources for food and medical assistance, vocational rehabilitation services, support for people with disabilities, youth development and violence prevention programs, housing programs, behavioral health (including mental health and substance use recovery) services, and problem gambling support.
"The Illinois State Fair brings together people from communities throughout our state and provides a valuable opportunity to connect with them face-to-face," said Dulce M. Quintero, IDHS Secretary. "Our presence at the fair reflects our mission to respond to the needs of all people in Illinois. We are here to ensure every fairgoer feels welcomed and supported as they learn more about the resources and services available to them.”
The IDHS tent will highlight the agency’s four divisions, including: Behavioral Health & Recovery, Developmental Disabilities, Family and Community Services, and Rehabilitation Services, along with its Office of Firearm Violence Prevention, Chief Behavioral Health Office, Office to Prevent and End Homelessness, Office of Olmstead Compliance, Serve Illinois, the Business Enterprise Program, and staff from IDHS Human Resources.
For more information on available human services, visit https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=27897.
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