At just 16 years old, Miss Illinois’ Teen 2026, Brooke Herod, has already built a legacy of compassion through her nonprofit organization, The Healing Hands Projects. What began as a simple act of kindness for a friend has grown into a statewide and national mission dedicated to bringing comfort to children and families facing medical challenges.

When Maddie’s son, Dean, was born at 28 weeks, Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Central Illinois provided comfort and support during an unimaginable time. Today, Maddie honors Dean by giving back to other families facing similar journeys.