Rilla Adcock | Peoria, IL
Grants Supervisor | Prairie State Legal Services, Inc.
Passionate about improving systems and empowering people, Rilla Adcock’s professional and volunteer work both lead to deep community impact. As the Grants Supervisor for Prairie State Legal Services (PSLS), Rilla plays a crucial role in the organization’s mission to provide free civil legal services to low-income individuals, survivors of domestic violence, seniors and veterans. She manages a $5 million grant and oversees a team of Grant Specialists responsible for raising an additional $2-3 million each year. Jennifer Luczkowiak of PSLS observes that Rilla “leads with joy and excitement. Her leadership ensures continued access to justice and stability for vulnerable populations.”
Outside the office, Rilla devotes significant time to hands-on community service. At Foster Village Peoria, she contributes her organizational expertise to ensure program stability and impact. Through the Pet Pack Rescue Initiative, Rilla fosters dogs, some with medical or behavioral needs, providing a safe environment to decompress and heal.
“I’ve always focused on doing my best at whatever role I had at the time. This approach of showing up, working hard and remaining flexible to new opportunities has allowed things to fall into place for me in meaningful ways.”
Rilla is drawn to help those who are struggling, perhaps because of her own struggles. When she was 16, Rilla experienced a traumatic brain injury which eventually became debilitating. “In 2012, when my eldest nephew was born, I was in too much physical pain to hold him,” explains Rilla. “Determined for change, I started seeing a chiropractor and joined a Crossfit Gym. Today, there are only faint whispers of the challenges I once faced. Having a chapter of my life that was filled with chronic pain has allowed me to be patient, compassionate and more understanding to others.”
Rilla’s leadership inspiration comes from her parents. Her mom, Jill was “a trailblazer,” serving in the Army in the 1970s when women were first introduced to boot camp. She continued to create her own path; raising a family while working in factories, co-running the family business and building a career in construction. “She navigated male-dominated spaces with resilience and a genuine ‘how can I help’ mindset.”
Therry, Rilla’s father, exemplified leadership. As an Eagle Scout and troop leader, his commanding presence was accompanied by careful listening. “I am honored to be ‘Mr. A’s’ daughter.”
Gushing about the many local gems central Illinois has to offer, Rilla champions small businesses. “When we choose to shop locally, we’re investing directly in our neighbors, strengthening social connections and promoting sustainability. Local businesses help keep communities vibrant and they create spaces where people know and support one another.”
Rilla visits those vibrant spaces with her husband, Eric. They live in Peoria with “a rotation of foster dogs.” Rilla counts herself lucky to have her parents and other family members nearby.