Darien Women Specialize In Child Care: Patch Heroes

DARIEN, IL — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented and changing times.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these heroes making a difference in their communities. Together with Ring, we're working to let all your neighbors know about these outstanding people and their stories.

The submissions come from Stephanie, who nominated her co-workers, Kimyanna Akande and Denise Pokorney.

Names: Kimyanna Akande and Denise Pokorney

Hometown: Darien

Hero's job: Child care or elder care

Reasons for recognition: Kimyanna is one of the most dedicated teachers I have ever known. Her passion for teaching is immeasurable. Denise has been a wonderful teacher at ABC Land Preschool for over 25 years. When the preschool was an emergency childcare center for the pandemic, she went beyond her regular duties to keep the chaos from affecting the children at school.

One thing to know: Your child will be in the best of hands under the tutelage of Kimyanna. The children and parents love Denise.

> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here. Read about other heroes from across Illinois here.