Chicago, IL (CHAMBANA TODAY) – The Illinois Lottery is joining lotteries across North America in celebrating Lottery Week, running from July 14–18, 2025. This annual celebration highlights the far-reaching benefits of lottery proceeds in local communities—from funding public education to supporting charitable causes and stimulating economic growth.
As part of this year’s celebration, the Illinois Lottery is teaming up with more than 40 radio stations statewide to thank its players. Listeners have the chance to win a bundle of Instant Tickets—one of which could be worth up to $2 million.
“For over 50 years, the Illinois Lottery has proudly supported communities throughout the state—most notably through funding for K-12 public education,” says Harold Mays, director of the Illinois Lottery. “Lottery Week is a time to celebrate the players, retailers, and partners who make our mission possible and help deliver winning moments across Illinois every day.”
Nearly 99% of Illinois Lottery proceeds go to the Common School Fund, supporting K-12 public education. Since 1985, the lottery has contributed over $25 billion to education and other good causes across Illinois.
Proceeds from specialty scratch tickets also help fund a wide range of charitable programs, including:
- Alzheimer’s support services
- Breast cancer research and care
- Homelessness prevention
- Multiple sclerosis research
- Support for Special Olympics Illinois
- United Negro College Fund scholarships
- Veterans’ programs
The Illinois Lottery also plays a key role in local economic development, supporting a network of nearly 7,000 retail partners across the state. In fiscal year 2025 alone, retailers earned an estimated $172 million in commissions and bonuses, and players took home about $2.6 billion in prizes, including 38 prizes of $1 million or more.
For updates and ways to celebrate Lottery Week, visit Facebook.com/IllinoisLottery or follow along on Instagram at @illinoislottery.
