FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 20, 2025
Fox Lake, IL – For Mayor Donny Schmit, public service is not just a duty—it’s a lifelong commitment rooted in the values of giving back and building a stronger community. Inspired by the words of Arthur Ashe—“With what you earn, you make a living. With what you give, you make a life.”—Mayor Schmit has dedicated his life to volunteering, civic leadership, and community service.
“I heard this quote when I was young, and it stuck with me,” said Schmit. “My father always said we live in the greatest country on earth, and we need to give back. Over the years, I’ve found that when I volunteer, I get back much more than I give.”
Schmit’s commitment to Fox Lake began in grade school, when he started visiting senior citizens—a tradition he has continued as mayor, regularly visiting Fox Lake’s four senior complexes every two months. Since 2009, he has also hosted an annual free lasagna dinner for seniors and has remained actively involved in local schools, scouting programs, and veteran memorial events.
A Life of Service to Fox Lake
Mayor Schmit’s leadership extends beyond his role in government—his volunteerism, civic engagement, and hands-on contributions have made a lasting impact on the community.
Civic Leadership
✔️ Mayor of Fox Lake (Three terms)
✔️ Fox Lake Trustee (2 years)
✔️ Fox Lake Planning Commission Board Member (2 years)
Community Volunteering
✔️ Fox Lake Volunteer Fire Department Member (25+ years)
✔️ Memorial and Festival Committees
✔️ Coach for Lakeland Cardinal Wrestling & Football Clubs (6 years each)
✔️ Lions Club Instructor for Blind Bowling League & Carnival Volunteer
Church & Faith-Based Service
✔️ Recipient of the Christi Fidelis Award from Cardinal George for Volunteer of the Year
✔️ Pastoral Council Member (Two 4-year terms)
✔️ Religious Education Advisory Board Member (Two 4-year terms)
✔️ Religious Education Teacher (6 years) & Youth Ministry Coordinator (8 years)
✔️ Founder of St. Bede’s Food Pantry and Rosaries for the Troops Program (10 years)
✔️ Parish Festival Volunteer & Chairman (23 years)
✔️ Octoberfest Chairman (5 years)
Hands-On Contributions to Fox Lake
In addition to his time and leadership, Schmit has personally donated labor, materials, and expertise to improve Fox Lake’s public infrastructure, completing all work free of charge. His contributions include:
✔️ Installing water main and sprinkler system piping at Village Hall
✔️ Setting the communication tower with a crane at the Police Department
✔️ Installing irrigation piping and setting the backup generator for the 911 Center
✔️ Setting HVAC units at the Fire Department
A Mayor Who Leads by Example
“To me, being mayor is just another way to volunteer and give back to the community,” Schmit stated. “Over the years, I’ve been involved in virtually every Village, Fire Department, and St. Bede event because I love this community and want to see it thrive.”
Mayor Donny Schmit’s lifelong dedication to service, transparency, and community growth is what continues to drive his leadership. With his re-election campaign underway, he remains committed to revitalizing Fox Lake, supporting local businesses, and ensuring a thriving future for all residents.
📢 Vote for Donny Schmit, Bernice Konwent, David Gauger, and Jeff Jensen on April 1st to keep Fox Lake moving forward!
