Coleman Tri-County Services is a nonprofit organization based in Illinois. Founded in 1972, it primarily serves the residents of Gallatin, Saline, and White counties, but also offers specific programs across thirty-one counties in Southeastern Illinois. The organization is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities, providing services such as developmental training, vocational services, supported living, and other support services. Their mission is to help individuals with disabilities achieve full community inclusion and exercise their choices in life.
Lisa Knight, a dedicated employee of Coleman Tri-County Services (CTS) for 37 years, has been a driving force behind many of the agency's community-focused events and initiatives. CTS was founded in 1972 by Evadeen Coleman, who recognized the need for enhanced services for individuals with disabilities. Since its inception, the organization has expanded to serve multiple counties with a wide range of programs. Lisa manages Fran and Friends, a resale shop owned by CTS. This shop is part of CTS’s broader mission to support individuals with disabilities. It provides a space where community members can donate and purchase items, with proceeds going towards funding various programs and services offer by CTS. 
One of Lisa's notable achievements is coordinating the Drive-Through Haunted Forest, which began in 1993 in Ridgway. Lisa, alongside a colleague no longer with the agency, founded the event, which later moved to Harrisburg in its 24th year to accommodate its growing popularity. Highlights of the Haunted Forest include appearances by CJ Graham, who portrayed Jason in Friday the 13th, and Douglas Tait, who played Michael Myers in a Halloween movie—bringing a touch of Hollywood to Harrisburg. The Haunted Forest even caught the eye of TLC’s 1000-lb Sisters, earning a feature in one of its episodes.
Lisa’s passion for bringing big events to small towns was evident when she organized a Wynonna Judd concert in Harrisburg—her first performance since COVID-19. Despite initial doubts, the event proved successful, demonstrating that major attractions can flourish in smaller communities. CTS has also hosted a concert by Josh Turner and sponsored Harrisburg's Eclipse Fest, featuring Ronnie McDowell.
Lisa credits her success to the immense support she has received from her team, whose encouragement and hard work have made these events possible. As CTS celebrates its 53rd year, Lisa looks forward to continuing to bring fun, engaging events, and valuable services to Southern Illinois, with even greater things on the horizon. 
What makes Southern Illinois feel like home to you, and why do you think it stands out compared to other places you have visited?
Why not Southern Illinois? The beautiful landscape is one of the best reasons to live here. As the seasons change, so do the trees, the grass, the crops, the weather—even the people seem to change. The breathtaking views at Garden of the Gods are truly unique.
There is a hometown feel here that you can sense whether you’re in a city like Marion, with its thousands of residents, or in a small town like my hometown of Equality, with just around five hundred people. That sense of community is unmatched. Working with the public, I know many of our customers by name; I know about their families, where they go to church, and more. It is a personal connection you might not find elsewhere.
I have traveled extensively across the country and to a few foreign countries, but I’m always glad to come back home. My family is here, my friends are here, and this is where I work. I was born in this area, and I will stay in this area for life. In a world that seems to change so much, it is comforting to know there are still good people around who will lend a hand, whether they know you or not. You find a lot of those people right here in Southern Illinois.
What makes Southern Illinois an appealing place for families and businesses, and how does the community's lifestyle and opportunities compare to those of larger cities or suburban areas?
Southern Illinois is not just a great place to live but also an ideal place to grow and raise a family. It offers the best of both worlds—access to nature and outdoor exploration, along with conveniences like shopping malls. While crime exists everywhere, it is not as prevalent here as in larger cities, making it a safer, more welcoming community.
Financially, Southern Illinois is a smart place to invest. The cost of living is lower, yet you do not have to sacrifice quality. The overall quality of life here surpasses what many suburban areas offer. Southern Illinois is full of opportunities, from business ventures to community involvement. There are numerous churches, diverse shopping options—from malls to local resale shops and a variety of restaurants ranging from big chains to charming mom-and-pop establishments.
Fall is an especially beautiful time in Southern Illinois, with stunning scenery, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and more. It’s a place where you can genuinely enjoy the best aspects of every season.
What inspires your passion for helping others within the Southern Illinois community, and how do you see that impact reflected in both personal and community settings?
Helping others, whether through spiritual guidance or simple acts of kindness, is at the heart of everything I do. In my role at Coleman Tri-County Services, I have worked closely with countless individuals across Southern Illinois, ensuring they receive the essential services and support they need to thrive in their communities. My work at CTS allows me to pay forward the kindness I’ve been shown throughout my life—often when I needed it most. I believe everyone needs a helping hand at times, and while we can't assist everyone, we can make a significant difference for those within our reach. Through my efforts at CTS, I strive to uplift those in need and strengthen our community one person at a time.