Sangamon County Board Member James Schackmann was recently named AMBUC of the year for his dedicated service to the Springfield American Business Club and its mission of supporting local charities.
In 2021, Schackmann served as Chairman of the Labor Committee of the Grandstand during the Illinois State Fair, which is the Chapters' primary fundraiser. As Labor Chair, Schackmann was responsible for organizing, recruiting, and directing over a thousand volunteers to serve concessions during the 10 days of the Illinois State Fair. Recruiting efforts began many months in advance, and thanks to Schackmann's efforts, ABC sold nearly $300,000 in concessions during the fair. This money is used to support countless charities in Sangamon County.
Brian Manci, President of the Springfield American Business Club, praised Shackmann's selfless work, "James Schackmann is the definition of a utility member. He is always the first to volunteer or help others out with anything they need. Which is no surprise as James also serves as a local Sangamon County board member. If something in the club needs to be done, James Schackmann is there to do it."
Previous awards to Shackmann include the Springfield Business Journal's "40 under 40" in 2012 and, the following year, the Junior League of Springfield "Good as Gold" award for his service to Habitat for Humanity.