Kelly L. Schneider is the program manager for the CEO Council and Young Professionals of Greater Peoria (YPGP), responsible for managing CEO Council committee projects and all operations of the Young Professionals Organization of Greater Peoria, coordinating meetings, committees, socials and special events with volunteer assistance. She serves as an ambassador for both organizations as well as the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, supporting efforts to create a stronger business climate and promote the Greater Peoria region.
Having started this position during the pandemic, Schneider continues to navigate the complexities of holding events in a virtual, in-person or hybrid format while maintaining engagement. She coordinated YPGP’s virtual LEAP Academy, a six-week leadership development program, and has found creative ways to adapt other in-person gatherings to make them safe and engaging. In 2016 she started a show called “What’s Up Peoria” to share what the area has to offer for entertainment, volunteerism and philanthropic opportunities.
Over the past six years, Schneider has been responsible for directing Retreat and Refresh Stroke Camps for the United Stroke Alliance. These weekend retreats focus on education, friendship and support for stroke survivors and their caregivers across the country. During the pandemic, she started creating weekly Facebook Live videos to stay connected to this community, and she continues to volunteer each month at the Tazewell Bingo Center, which donates a portion of proceeds to the Alliance. In 2019, she developed and headed the organization’s first Great Egg Scramble fundraiser and was named Volunteer of the Year.
Schneider has also been involved in the planning and implementation of events such as the Front Nine Foundation Golf Outing, Family House Golf Outing, and Trivia Nights for United Stroke Alliance. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Peoria-North, Emerging Philanthropists of Central Illinois, and National Association of Women Business Owners. PM
