The Ralls County Endowment Fund has reached an important milestone thanks to a generous $5,000 donation from Ranger Power. This contribution brings the Ralls County Endowment Fund, which is dedicated to growing the county’s resources and future, close to their fundraising goal of $15,000. Upon reaching this goal, the fund will become permanently endowed, earn a match of $15,000 from the Community Foundation, and begin providing annual grants to nonprofit organizations in Ralls County this summer. “Ranger Power, the developer of the Express Solar project, is honored to be a member of the Ralls County Endowment Founder’s Circle. By contributing to the Ralls County Endowment Fund in its infancy, we hope to help usher in a long-lasting financial impact designed to address economic opportunities throughout the County,” said Oliver Chag, Development Manager at Ranger Power. “It is important to Ranger Power to contribute to organizations like the Ralls County Endowment Fund, which provide lasting resources to the communities in which we work; it's not only a responsibility, but a privilege. As we continue our development of the Express Solar project, Ranger Power looks forward to watching this fund build on this early momentum and make a meaningful contribution to the Ralls County community for years to come.” The Ralls County Endowment Fund, administered by the Community Foundation, is dedicated to creating sustainable financial resources that will benefit local initiatives and nonprofit organizations. Through the Community Foundation’s County Endowment Program, any county within its service area can create a volunteer council to raise $15,000 and receive a $15,000 matching contribution to create a permanently endowed fund that will support needs and opportunities in the county forever. With the support of businesses and individuals, the fund aims to drive community development and enrichment across the county. If the fund reaches $15,000 by April 2025, the fund’s first grants will be awarded this summer. Anyone can contribute any amount to help the Ralls County Endowment reach its goal. The Ralls County Endowment is a collaborative charitable fund by and for citizens of Ralls County. Gifts to the Ralls County Endowment are combined and invested for long-term growth, and earnings from the fund are used for grants – creating a permanent, sustainable source of funding for Ralls County needs and opportunities. For more information on the Ralls County Endowment Fund and ways to contribute, visit: www.mycommunityfoundation.org/ralls-county-endowment-fund.

The Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri has announced a new scholarship fund that will provide financial support to Pike and Calhoun County, Illinois students who are pursuing education and training in agriculture. The Delford M. and Portia K. Richter Scholarship Fund seeks to encourage young people in Pike and Calhoun Counties to pursue agricultural careers and contribute their knowledge and skills back to their communities. The endowed fund, which was established through a gift of farmland from the Richters, will award its first scholarships in the spring of 2025. Up to twelve scholarships of $4,000 each will be awarded. Because the fund is endowed, it will continue to grow and award scholarships in perpetuity. “Agriculture is the heart of our region, and encouraging the next generation of farmers is important. This gift represents the Richters’ values of hard work, dedication to the community, and commitment to the land,” said Catherine Bocke Meckes, Community Foundation CEO. “By donating their farm to establish a scholarship fund, their agricultural legacy will live on through the countless students that benefit from their forward-thinking generosity. We are honored to help the Richters achieve their philanthropic goal, which will benefit our region for generations.” Eligible recipients are students graduating from high schools in Pike or Calhoun Counties in Illinois who are pursuing education or training in agriculture at an accredited postsecondary educational or nonprofit technical institution located in Illinois, Missouri, or Iowa. Preference will be given to students who are studying or training in production agriculture. Information about and applications for the Delford M. and Portia K. Richter Scholarship, and 17 additional Community Foundation scholarships, are available online at www.mycommunityfoundation.org/scholarships. For more information about Community Foundation scholarships, call 217-222-1237 or email scholarships@mycommunityfoundation.org. The Community Foundation’s Farmland for Good program allows landowners to contribute farmland to support their community for generations. Donors work with the Community Foundation to plan what cause their gift will support, then make an outright gift of land or plan a bequest to the Community Foundation. If desired, the Community Foundation can retain the land and keep it in production. Proceeds or income from the farm is then used to support the charitable wishes of the donor. For more information about the Farmland for Good program, call 217-222-1237 or email cmeckes@mycommunityfoundation.org.

The Marion County Endowment Fund is launching a new initiative, "Five for the Future," encouraging community members to invest in the future of local nonprofits through a simple, yet powerful commitment — just $5 per week. As a permanent charitable fund, the Marion County Endowment Fund exists solely to support local nonprofit organizations, focusing on children, families, and community betterment. Since 2015, the fund has awarded over $31,000 in grants to 21 nonprofits, making a tangible difference in the lives of Marion County residents. Through "Five for the Future," individuals can commit to donating $5 per week or $65 quarterly. If just 400 people participate, the campaign could generate an additional $104,000 annually, significantly expanding support for local arts, education, health services, and more. “This isn’t just a donation — it’s an investment in the future of Marion County,” said Marilyn Hall, Chair of the Marion County Fund Council. “By giving a small amount consistently, we can ensure that vital community programs continue to thrive for generations to come.” Ways to Give: • Set up automatic online donations (monthly, quarterly, yearly) • Give directly through your bank • Send a check payable to the Community Foundation for the Marion County Endowment Fund • Make a one-time gift of any amount • For retirees, a donation directly from an IRA is non-taxable Community members interested in joining the “Five for the Future” initiative can visit www.mycommunityfoundation.org/marion-county-endowment-fund to initiate their one-time or recurring gift. The Marion County Endowment Fund is a permanent charitable resource dedicated to supporting nonprofits that serve the residents of Marion County, MO. Ledby a local advisory council, the fund provides annual grants in the areas of arts & education, health & human services, and community betterment, ensuring lasting impact through sustainable philanthropy. Previous recipients include the following local organizations: 2024 • CHART Teen Task Force – $1,100 • Coyote Hill – $1,100 • Douglass Community Services, Inc. (Kids in Motion) – $1,182.62 • NorthEast Independent Living Services – $1,100 2023 • Birthday Blessings – $621.38 • Hannibal-LaGrange University – $1,000 • Coyote Hill – $1,000 • The Child Advocacy Center of Northeast Missouri, Inc. – $1,000 2022 • Birthday Blessings – $1,400 • Bluff City Theater – $1,400 • FACT: Families and Communities Together – $1,400 • Salvation Army – $2,500 2021 • CHART Teen Task Force – $677.47 • Hannibal Alliance for Youth Services – $1,000 • Salvation Army – $1,200 This list reflects just a portion of the impact made possible through community support and continued investments in the Marion County Endowment Fund! For more information about the match, contact Marilyn Hall at (573) 231-5383 or hmarilyn266@gmail.com or the Community Foundation at (217) 222-1237, epridemore@mycommunityfoundation.org.

The Pike County (IL) Endowment Fund with the Community Foundation has been offered the opportunity to grow by up to $50,000 through a dollar-for-dollar matching donation challenge. If successful, the Pike County Endowment Fund will reach a balance of $250,000 – generating and sustaining $10,000 in grants annually. Through the “Double Down 2.0” effort, every gift made to the Pike County Endowment Fund, now extended until March 15, 2025, will be doubled by an anonymous donor. More than $16,000 has been contributed towards the match since the announcement of the campaign. With $8,535.52 left to raise to reach the goal of $25,000, the Pike County Endowment Fund Council is excited to rally the community for this final push, ensuring that together we can maximize the match opportunity and create an even greater impact for charitable needs in Pike County. In addition to having their gift match, donors can also take advantage of the new “Illinois Gives” tax credit, which offers a 25% State of Illinois income tax credit for gifts to endowed funds at qualified community foundations. “Nonprofits are the heart of our communities, and we’re proud to support these organizations as they work tirelessly to lift up our neighbors and our county,” said Iftner. “By contributing to the Double Down 2.0 Challenge, you help us increase the amount that we can give to our nonprofits every year. It’s truly a gift that keeps giving.” Established in 2008 by Pike County residents, the fund serves as a lasting resource to support the county’s charitable needs and opportunities. By pooling and investing local assets, the fund has made a significant impact, awarding over $37,000 in grants to more than a dozen local nonprofits — all made possible through the generosity of over 100 individuals, organizations, and businesses. Because the fund is endowed, gifts are invested for growth with grants made annually from the earnings. “The Pike County Endowment Fund is by and for all of us in Pike County. If you love Pike County, it has been good to you, and you want it to be even better for future generations, you should consider giving to the Pike County Endowment Fund,” said Iftner. “And, right now, your gift will be doubled – there is no better time than now to invest in Pike County.” The Illinois Gives Tax Credit began Jan. 1 and allows Illinois taxpayers to be eligible to receive a 25% State of Illinois income tax credit, up to $100,000 for individuals or $200,000 for couples, for gifts to endowed funds at qualified Illinois community foundations, including the Pike County Endowment Fund. Please contact the Community Foundation for more information on how to take advantage of this opportunity. Gifts towards this effort need to be made to the Community Foundation, noting that they are for the Pike County Endowment Fund. The Community Foundation accepts a variety of gifts including cash, stocks, grain, livestock, IRA distributions, and other assets. Gifts can be mailed to the Community Foundation at 621 Vermont, Quincy, IL 62301 noting that they are for Pike County. Gifts can also be made online at www.mycommunityfoundation.org/pike-county. To discuss gifts of stock or other assets, or the Illinois Gives opportunity, contact the Community Foundation at 217-222-1237. For more information about the match, contact Iftner at (201) 314-3624 or kiftner@gmail.com or the Community Foundation at (217) 222-1237, epridemore@mycommunityfoundation.org.

Twenty-three local nonprofit organizations have been awarded grants in memory of Samantha Otte, supporting initiatives that will positively impact hundreds of area youth through programs focused on creativity, leadership, and humanitarian initiatives. This year, over $50,000 in grants were distributed from the Samantha Otte Youth Opportunity Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri. The presentation took place at Bella Ease, one of this year’s grant recipients. The fund was established in late 2000 and has continued Samantha’s legacy of empowering and inspiring young people. “Twenty-five years of annual Sammy golfing events. Ten years of the Breakfast Kiwanis putting on fun-filled tournaments. 87 grants of over $629,000 allowing all area children to access opportunities every child needs. Ten years and two months of life with our precious Samantha. Countless times we have witnessed the goodness the Community Foundation grants bestow on local children needing a boost,” said June Otte, Samantha’s mother. “Still, we struggle to find words adequate to convey our deep gratitude. Saying thank you is simply not enough. We have witnessed the power of a most generous, loving community.” The Samantha Otte Youth Opportunity Fund was created to celebrate the life and legacy of Samantha Otte by empowering children in our community to reach their fullest potential. Samantha, who passed away in March 2000 at 10 years old following a liver transplant made necessary by cystic fibrosis, left a lasting impact on those who knew her. In her memory, her parents, Chuck and June Otte, established this fund at the Community Foundation. As the Foundation’s first donor advised fund, it continues to honor Samantha’s spirit by supporting opportunities that inspire growth, artistry and hope for area youth. “It is truly humbling to watch Samantha’s impact and legacy grow year after year through grants from her fund” said Catherine Bocke Meckes, Community Foundation CEO. “Her spirit lives on through each child who benefits. The community is a better place because of Sammy and her family.” Grants were awarded to the following organizations: Bella Ease Birthday Blessings Chaddock Children's Foundation CHART Teen Task Force Cheerful Home Child Care & Early Learning Center Cornerstone Foundations for Families Covered Bottoms Diaper Bank, Inc. Embrace Children and Families Friends of Bailey Park Girl Scouts of Central Illinois Horizons Social Services of Adams County, Inc. Jackson-Lincoln Swimming Complex, Inc. John Wood Community College Foundation John Wood Community College Foundation Muddy River Opera Company Quincy Art Center Quincy Children's Museum Quincy Community Theatre Quincy Symphony Orchestra Association Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois St. Dominic School Transitions of Western Illinois United Way of Adams County, Inc. West Central Child Care Connection The Community Foundation is grateful to the Gem City Kiwanis Club for continuing to support the Samantha Otte Youth Opportunity Fund through its annual Sammy & Kids Golf Outing.

The Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri awarded more than $370,000 Friday to 62 local nonprofit organizations that benefit from their endowment fund. The grants were awarded from designated funds, which support one or more specific organizations. The funds have been established by the nonprofit itself or by donors to provide a permanent source of support for organizations they care about. This year’s designated fund grants range from about $250 to more than $66,000. Endowments provide an additional, dependable source of annual income for the nonprofit organizations. Gifts to endowment are invested for growth, and each year, a portion of the earnings are distributed as a grant. Depending on the donor’s intent, the grants will be used for much-needed operating support or for a specific purpose. “While we can’t predict the future, through endowment, we can prepare for it and ensure local nonprofits have the resources they need to fuel their mission,” said Catherine Bocke Meckes, Community Foundation CEO. “We are grateful to the forward-thinking donors and nonprofits who join us in growing local philanthropy not only for today, but for tomorrow.” One of the nonprofits that received grants was Horizons Social Services, which benefits from two endowed funds. “The permanency of endowment provides us with a profound sense of security and hope, ensuring that our feeding programs will continue to nourish and uplift our neighbors for generations to come,” said Sarah Stephens, Horizons Executive Director. “It empowers us to focus fully on our mission, knowing that the future of our mission is steadfastly supported.” The following organizations received grants from designated endowment funds: Alzheimer’s Association – Illinois Chapter received a grant from the Alzheimer’s Association Endowment for use at the Quincy chapter. American Red Cross, Serving the Quad Cities and West Central Illinois received grants to be used in Adams County from the Adams County Red Cross Fund and the Herbert C. & Dorothy E. Everly Memorial Fund. Appanoose Faith Presbyterian Church received a grant from the Clarence Ziegler, Etoile Ziegler, and Vickie Ziegler Thompson Endowment. Blessing Foundation, Inc. received a grant from the Lowell & Vickie Glas Designated Fund. Boy Scouts of America, Mississippi Valley Council #141 received a grant from the Scouting Forever Endowment and the Henry and Betty Brooks & Omer and Doris Walton Saukenauk Scout Reservation Fund. Brain Trauma Awareness Organization received a grant from the Brain Trauma Awareness Organization Quality of Life Fund. Canton Public Library received a grant from the Canton Public Library Fund. Chaddock received a grant from the Mohrman Family Endowment. Cheerful Home Child Care & Early Learning Center received a grant from the Cheerful Home Children’s Fund. Cornerstone: Foundations for Families received a grant from the Cornerstone: Foundations for Families Fund. Culver-Stockton College received a grant from the James T. Riley Fund. Friends of Dr. Richard Eells House received grants from the Dr. Richard Eells House Fund and the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Friends of the Castle received grants from the Friends of the Castle Fund and the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Friends of the Log Cabins received a grant from the Friends of the Log Cabins Fund. Friends of the Performing Arts received a grant from the Brink/Shih Fund for the Quincy Public Schools’ Friends of the Performing Arts. Friends of the Trails received a grant from the Friends of the Trails Endowment. Friends of Unit 4 received a grant from the Friends of Unit 4 Fund. Preferred Family Healthcare dba Clarity Healthcar e received a grant from the Recovery Resources Fund. Griggsville/Perry CUSD #4 received a grant from an Anonymous Fund and the Betty Logan Fund. Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County received grants from the Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County Fund and the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Horizons Social Services received grants from the B’nai Sholom Endowment for Horizons Social Services, the Mary Wilson Endowment, and the Horizons Social Services Fund. Mary Weems Barton Foundation for the Quincy Public Library received a grant from the Mary Wilson Endowment and the Mary Weems Barton Foundation Fund for the Quincy Public Library. Illinois 4-H Foundation received a grant from the Andrew Tenhouse Memorial Fund. Jackson-Lincoln Swimming Complex, Inc. received a grant from the Jackson-Lincoln Swimming Complex, Inc. Fund. John Wood Community College Foundation received a grant from the John Wood Community College Foundation Development Fund. Lewis County Historical Society received a grant from The Plank Memorial Fund. Lutheran Hours Ministries received a grant from the Carl Drebes and Herbert Drebes Memorial Fund. Mary Weems Barton Foundation for the Quincy Public Library received a grant from the Mary Weems Barton Foundation Fund for the Quincy Public Library. Mt. Sterling Community Center YMCA received a grant from the Mt. Sterling Community Center Fund. Pathway Health Clinic, Inc. received a grant from the Pathway Health Clinic Fund. Payson CUSD #1 received a grant from the Bud and Mary Scranton Endowment. Pikeland CUSD #10 received grants from an Anonymous Fund and from the Dr. Paul & Doris Rosene Band Fund. Quincy Area Habitat for Humanity received grants from the Habitat for Humanity Housing Ministry Fund and the Donald P.W. Voth Fund. Quincy Art Center received grants from the Quincy Art Center Fund and the Jack W. Boge Fund. Quincy Civic Music Association received a grant from the Quincy Civic Music Association Fund. Quincy Community Theatre received grants from the BeeJay Adams Fund and the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Quincy Humane Society received grants from the Quincy Humane Society Fund, the Bette J. Starnes Fund for Quincy Humane Society, and the Clifford H. Taylor Fund for the Quincy Humane Society. Quincy Museum, Inc. received grants from the Quincy Museum Fund and the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Quincy Notre Dame Foundation received a grant from the Quincy Notre Dame Foundation Capital and Improvement Fund. Quincy Park Band, Inc. received grants from the H. Dennis Everly Fund and the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Quincy Preserves received a grant from the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Quincy Public Schools Foundation received a grant from the Quincy Public Schools Foundation Fund and from the Patricia M. Lawber Education Endowment Fund to be used for classroom curricula for third grade students. Quincy Service League received a grant from the Amelia E. Bauner, Frances A. Hall, and Walter J. Hall Charitable Fund. Quincy Society of Fine Arts/Arts Quincy received grants from the George M. Irwin ARTS Fund, the Jack W. Boge Fund, and the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Quincy Symphony Orchestra Association received a grant from the Quincy Symphony Fund. Quincy University received a grant from the Quincy University Endowment. Salvation Army of Quincy received a grant from the Herbert C. & Dorothy E. Everly Memorial Fund. Southeastern CUSD #337 received a grant from the Jimmie (Jim) Hiland Memorial Fund. St. Francis Solanus Church received grants from the Edward C. Hinkamper Fund for St. Francis Solanus Church, the Edward C. Hinkamper Fund for St. Francis School Students, the Lucille Hollender Memorial Fund, the Mike Mason Fund for St. Francis School, and the Rick & Judy Haugh Endowment Fund for its Community Assistance Ministry. St. James Lutheran Elementary School received a grant from the George & Charlotte Spear Charitable Fund. St. John’s Cathedral received a grant from the St. John’s Anglican Music Fund. Sunset Senior Living received grants from the Sunset Home Fund, the Lowell & Vickie Glas Designated Fund, and the Mohrman Family Endowment. Teresa Adams House through Blessing Hospital received a grant from the Teresa Adams House Fund. The Well House received a grant from the Kaufmann Family Fund for Well House, Inc. Transitions of Western Illinois received a grant from the Transitions of Western Illinois Fund. United Way of Adams County, Inc. received a grant from the Adams United Legacy Fund. United Way of Brown County received a grant from the United Way of Brown County Fund. West Central Illinois Agency on Aging received a grant from the Quincy Senior Citizens’ Center Fund. West Central Illinois Case Coordination Unit received a grant from the Meals on Wheels Fund. YMCA of Quincy received grants from the 2nd Lt. Albert C. Warford, Jr. Fund and the Quincy Family YMCA Fund. YWCA of Quincy received grants from the YWCA – Quincy Fund and the Dorothy J. Plank Memorial Fund. Zion Lutheran Church received grants from the Carl Drebes and Herbert Drebes Memorial Fund and from the Zion Lutheran Early Childhood Endowment. In addition to these organizations, the Community Foundation received grants from 24 endowment funds designated to support its work and sustainability, including: Adams Telephone Co-Operative Friends of the Foundation Fund ADM Friend of the Foundation Fund Administrative Endowment Missouri & Illinois Ayers Oil Companies Fund Blessing Hospital Friend of the Foundation Fund Karl H. & Bobbi Bowles Family and Quincy Farm & Home Supply Company Friends of the Foundation Fund D. Reaugh Broemmel Founding Executive Director Fund Mike & Jean Buckley Family Friends of the Foundation Fund E. Marilyn Clark Friend of the Foundation Fund Matthew G. & Rebecca A. Dickinson Friends of the Foundation Fund DISTek Integration, Inc. Friend of the Foundation Fund H. Dennis Everly Friend of the Foundation Fund Lawrence & Irene Huegel Endowment Fund for Administrative Salary JK Creative Friends of the Foundation Fund Knapheide Family Friends of the Foundation Fund Kohl Wholesale Friends of the Foundation Fund Refreshment Services Pepsi Friends of the Foundation Fund S. Dean & Mary Jane Sims Friends of the Foundation Fund Sprague’s Kinderhook Lodge & Sprague Farms, Inc. Friend of the Foundation Fund State Street Bank & Trust Company Friend of the Foundation Fund John G. and Carolyn H. Stevenson Friends of the Foundation Fund Vecchie Family Friend of the Foundation Fund Dennis R. Williams Friend of the Foundation Fund Carl, Althea & Cathy Wiskirchen Friends of the Foundation Fund Grants from the Community Foundation come from more than 240 funds, primarily endowments, established by individuals, families, and businesses to support arts and culture, community betterment, education, health, and human services. Endowments serve as a steady resource for support, as an avenue for accepting complex gifts, and to provide protection of assets. Anyone may make a gift of any amount to a fund at any time. Gifts to the Community Foundation are also tax deductible at the highest levels allowed.

As a devoted agricultural student, Ty Rylander’s dedication to nurturing growth — both in the land and in the lives of others — made a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. Although Ty’s life ended far too soon, his legacy continues to shine through the Ty Rylander Fund. The Community Foundation, along with Ty’s Family, are proud to honor his memory by awarding $500 to Pittsfield High School (PHS) to support the Future Farmers of America (FFA) program. "Ty loved being involved in the FFA program at Pittsfield High School. Because of so many generous donations from supporters of the Ty Run and Ty Rylander Fund, we’re excited to be able to make this additional donation this year to the PHS FFA program,” said Erin Verbeck, Ty’s sister. Pittsfield High School Agriculture teacher Emily Friese received the grant on behalf of the PHS FFA program. Through FFA, students gain valuable skills in leadership, teamwork, and agricultural science, preparing them for careers in farming, agribusiness, and beyond. This program empowers the next generation to carry forward the same passion and commitment to agriculture that Ty exemplified. Funding through the Community Foundation ensures that Ty’s love of agriculture and community continues to inspire and make a difference for future generations. For more information about the Ty Rylander fund or how you can support a legacy, contact the Community Foundation at 217-222-1237.

The Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri welcomes Emily Pridemore as the organization’s Development Officer. In her role, Pridemore will support the Community Foundation’s donor engagement and communication strategies, helping donors fulfill their charitable goals and communicating Community Foundation news, impact and opportunities. “On behalf of the Community Foundation Board of Directors and staff, we are thrilled to welcome Emily to our team as we continue to deepen our mission and grow our impact,” said Catherine Bocke Meckes, Community Foundation CEO. “Emily brings with her enthusiasm and a love for community. Her demonstrated experience and eye for opportunity aligns with the Community Foundation’s goals to strengthen our service so we can support even more nonprofits and programs in West Central Illinois and Northeast Missouri.” In 2023, the Community Foundation’s charitable assets grew to more than $62 million held in more than 230 funds, fueling annual grantmaking of $6 million. These funds, primarily endowed, are established by forward-thinking donors to provide sustainable annual grants that directly support local nonprofits. Pridemore comes with experience in charitable programs and healthcare administration including positions as Donor Relations Manager at the Chaddock Children’s Foundation and as Project Support Specialist serving the senior management team at Quincy Medical Group. “I deeply admire the dedication of those who have invested their lives in the communities we serve and committed themselves to its betterment, as well as the strong leadership at the Community Foundation. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this growth and am truly honored to take on these responsibilities,” Pridemore said.

Local nonprofits received a total of $284,311 in grant funding from the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri today at an awards presentation at the Knowledge Center at Chaddock. These grants, which are made possible by 65 permanently endowed charitable funds, will play an important role in assisting nonprofit organizations dedicated to arts and culture, community betterment, education, health, and human services in our region. The grants will support various programs, help with the purchase of essential equipment and supplies, and contribute to much-needed operational expenses. "Over the last three years, we have experienced a 60 percent increase in the number of applications. This demonstrates the growing need in our community as well as the demand for services that our nonprofit organizations experience in their daily work," said Community Foundation Program Officer Kent Embree. "Thanks to endowment, we’re able to fulfill more of this need each year. We are proud to offer a program that is accessible to so many charitable organizations and causes, and we are looking forward to seeing the great work they will do this year." Through the Community Grant program, the Community Foundation strives to strengthen nonprofit programs that enhance the quality of life throughout our region. The Community Foundation annually accepts applications for funding from nonprofit organizations in its 12-county region. A grant committee, comprised of board members and volunteers from throughout the region, evaluates each application to determine the awards. The funding for these Community Grants is made possible through earnings from endowment funds. Generous donors collaborate with the Community Foundation to establish permanent charitable funds that align with their philanthropic goals and the needs of the community. The Community Foundation invests and grows these funds, and each year a portion of the fund's earnings are distributed as grants, while the principal remains intact. “Nonprofits are vital for enhancing the quality of life in our communities,” said Catherine Bocke Meckes, Community Foundation Chief Executive Officer. “We are grateful to the donors who have established endowments that will continue to grow and provide more funding each and every year. The impact is unlimited.” The following funds supported the 2024 community grant program: Community Endowment Funds, support grants for arts and culture, community betterment, education, health and human services in the Community Foundation’s 12-county service area: • Anonymous Funds (2) • B’nai Shalom Endowment • Karl H. & Bobbi Bowles Family and Quincy Farm & Home Supply Company Fund • Dr. & Mrs. Merle F. Crossland Family Fund • Harry Channon Eaton Family Endowment Fund • Angie (Fusselman) Mayes & Evelyn J. Fusselman Fund • Harry J. & Bernice M. Wissman Heidbreder Fund • Kirk Family Fund – Houston, Carolyn & Carson • Carl and Gladys Koehser Family Fund • Mrs. Arthur O. Lindsay Fund • Robert A. & Anne M. Mays Fund • Earl and Irene Oliver Family Fund • Robert G. and Melva Campbell Riley Fund • Charles A. & Nancy Scholz Charitable Fund • Margaret J. Sinnock Fund • Bette J. Starnes Endowment • Hansen-Spear Funeral Home Endowment • Jeffrey G. & Theresa L. Spear Fund • Grant L. and K. Georgann Sturhahn Fund • Dorothy L. Swallow Fund • Community Endowment Fund • James R. and Katherine H. Williams Fund • Carl, Althea & Cathy Wiskirchen Endowment Funds for Adams County, support any charitable need or opportunity in Adams County, Illinois: • Adams County Endowment Fund • Alan L. Stiegemeier and Mary Ellen Stiegemeier Charitable Fund • HOMEBANK of Quincy Fund • Paul H. and Anne B. Gardner Memorial Fund • William and Sheila Menke Endowment Field of Interest Funds, support a specific cause or community as determined by the donor: • Jerry & Linley Bartell Endowment • Blessing Hospital Community Health Fund • Ben and Helen Bumbry Educational Assistance Endowment • Jayne & Leroy Boeckelman Fund for Young Musicians • Katherine Broemmel Endowment for the Arts • City of Refuge Fund • Noma Meyers Eaton Fund • Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund • HOMEBANK Fund • Jane's Kids' Fund • Jon’s Home Center Associates Fund • G. Arthur (Art) Keller, Jr. Fund • Irwin Family Fund • Cory Didriksen Lovelace Fund • Dr. Robert and Shirley Murphy Endowment for Music • The Quincy Foundation Fund • Quincy Recycle Fund • James L. & Dorothy W. Rouner Fund • The Wood Endowment County Endowment Funds, support nonprofit organizations in a specific county: • Brown County Endowment Fund (IL) • Hancock County Endowment Fund (IL) • Lewis County Endowment Fund (MO) • Marion County Endowment Fund (MO) • Monroe County Endowment Fund (MO) • Pike County Endowment Fund (IL) • Shelby County Endowment Fund (MO) Donor Advised Funds, allow a fund advisor to recommend grant recipients. Donor advisors may recommend grants at any time throughout the year, but are encouraged to consider grants in support of Community Grant requests: • Sarah Christine Birsic Memorial Fund • Green-Humphrey Family Fund for Music • Diane Nielsen Gossard Memorial Fund • Joe and Denette Kuhlman Family Fund • T. C. & Mary S. Oakley Descendants Fund • Ralph Oakley Family Fund • Optimist Club of Quincy Friend of Youth Fund • Palmyra Chamber of Commerce Prosperity Fund • Betty Schmidt Endowment • The Zechariah Fund These are among the 230+ funds at the Community Foundation that support arts and culture, community betterment, education, health or human services, include eight new funds contributing grant dollars for the 2024 program. This year’s grant recipients include: Adams County Bicentennial Adams County Historical Timeline Monument Betty Schmidt Endowment, Funds for Adams County, United States Founding Fathers Fund Adams County Sheriff Sheriff Work Alternative Program Improvement Project Funds for Adams County Advocacy Network for Children General Support Community Endowment Funds Bella Ease Funding CARES 2024 youth after-school program Jerry and Linley Bartell Endowment, Funds for Adams County, Community Endowment Funds, Optimist Club of Quincy Friend of Youth Fund Bluff City Theater Building the Next Generation of Theater Audience Noma Meyers Eaton Fund, Community Endowment Funds Boy Scouts of America - Mississippi Valley Council #141 Financial Assistance for Youth in Adams, Pike, Brown, Hancock, and Clark Community Endowment Funds Bright Futures Knox County General Support of Bright Futures Knox County Community Endowment Funds, G. Arthur (Art) Keller, Jr. Fund Brown County Early Learning Center NFP General Support Jon's Home Center Associates Fund Canton Main Street Association Historical Preservation - Exterior Facade Grantmaking Lewis County Endowment Fund Carthage Park District Creating An Outdoor Space that will Create Lasting Memories Community Endowment Funds Chaddock Children's Foundation Kids On The Block Puppetry materials for educational awareness Funds for Adams County, Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund CHART Teen Task Force Sexuality Education in Northeast Missouri Schools Marion County Endowment Fund Cheerful Home Child Care & Early Learning Center Arts in the Outdoors Jon's Home Center Associates Fund Clark County Council on Aging, Inc. Operating Funds Community Endowment Funds Community for Christ Assistance Center Utilities and Food for Families in Need Funds for Adams County, Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund Connect Child and Family Solutions General Support Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund, Funds for Adams County Cornerstone Foundations for Families Comprehensive Youth Services Ralph Oakley Family Fund County of Ralls Missouri Fort Mason Monument Project Community Endowment Funds Covered Bottoms Diaper Bank, Inc. Bridging the Diaper Gap in West Central IL Blessing Hospital Community Health Fund, Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund Coyote Hill Coyote Hill Foster Family Community Groups Marion County Endowment Fund, Community Endowment Funds Culver-Stockton College: Tri-State Development Community Project Support for Entrepreneurship Community Endowment Funds Douglass Community Services, Inc. Kids in Motion - Youth development and leadership program, housing services Jon's Home Center Associates Fund, Community Endowment Funds, Marion County Endowment Fund, Ralph Oakley Family Fund Downtown Monroe City Revitalization Leadership Enhancement Monroe County Endowment Fund MC Rec Center General Support Community Endowment Funds First Chance for Children Bab Bags Diaper Bank Community Endowment Funds Food For Thoughts Hancock County Week-End Meal Program Community Endowment Funds, Hancock County Endowment Fund Friends of the Castle General Support Community Endowment Funds, Funds for Adams County Friends of the Performing Arts/Quincy Public Schools Quincy Junior High School Tubas Funds for Adams County, Green-Humphrey Family Fund for Music, Ben & Helen Bumbry Educational Assistance Endowment Girl Scouts of Central Illinois Girl Scout Leadership Experience - Adams, Brown, Hancock, and Pike Counties Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund, Community Endowment Funds Great Commission Broadcasting Corporation - WGCA-FM Area betterment through promoting local nonprofits Funds for Adams County Hancock County Senior and Childcare Services Striving to Meet the Childcare Needs of Hancock County Hancock County Endowment Fund, Community Endowment Funds, G. Arthur (Art) Keller, Jr. Fund Hannibal Arts Council Hannibal Operating Support Community Endowment Funds Heartland Resources, Inc. General Support Lewis County Endowment Fund, Community Endowment Funds Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County Lighting Upgrade for Visitors Center Collection Storage Area Funds for Adams County, The Quincy Foundation Fund, Community Endowment Funds Horizons Social Services of Adams County, Inc. KidzPacks 2024-2025 Fruit Initiative Ralph Oakley Family Fund Impact Global General Support Ralph Oakley Family Fund Jensen Camp Foundation Superior Sleep for Summer Stays Community Endowment Funds Jim's Journey: the Huck Finn Freedom Center General Support Museum artifact/documents Replacement Community Endowment Funds Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis General Support Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund Kairo’s Hope General support of residential program for survivors of sexual trauma Sarah Christine Birsic Memorial Fund Lewis County Food Pantry Ending Hunger 2024 Lewis County Endowment Fund, Community Endowment Funds Lewis County Health Department Enhancing Preventative Health Screenings in Lewis County, MO Lewis County Endowment Fund, Ralph Oakley Family Fund Memorial Hospital Expanding and Enhancing Emergency Preparedness in Hancock County Community Endowment Funds, The Wood Endowment Muddy River Opera Company Premiere Program-Providing the Community with Opera Experience The Quincy Foundation Fund NECAC - North East Community Action Corporation Empower Successful Students Community Endowment Funds NorthEast Independent Living Services Durable Medical Equipment Community Endowment Funds, Marion County Endowment Fund Northeast Missouri Humane Society General Support Community Endowment Funds OATS Inc. Enhance transit experience for North East Missouri communities Community Endowment Funds Palmyra Christian Academy Playground Construction HOMEBANK Fund Pike County Government / Pike County Liaison Committee Support for the Pike County Animal Shelter TNR Program (Trap-Neuter-Return) Community Endowment Funds, Pike County Endowment Fund Pike County Senior Citizen's Council General Support Pike County Endowment Fund Pike County Unmet Needs Provide individuals in the Pike County, IL assistance with basic needs and services Community Endowment Funds, Pike County Endowment Fund Pleasant Hill Senior Citizens Council General Support Pike County Endowment Fund QUEST Stables-Quincy Equestrian Services and Therapy NFP Scholarships for Equine Therapy Sessions for Area Special Needs Students The Zechariah Fund Quincy Art Center Quincy Art Center Starting with Art Initiative FY25 The Quincy Foundation Fund, Funds for Adams County, Community Endowment Funds Quincy Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 2024 Community Endowment Funds Quincy Children's Museum Museums for All Funds for Adams County, Joe & Denette Kuhlman Family Fund Quincy Children's Museum Ready. Set. GROW. Funds for Adams County, Community Endowment Funds Quincy Community Theatre General support of Quincy Community Theatre Katherine Broemmel Endowment for the Arts Quincy Concert Band General support of Quincy Concert Band Katherine Broemmel Endowment for the Arts, Funds for Adams County Quincy Humane Society Pet Food and Supplies Pantry Program 2024 Funds for Adams County Quincy Museum, Inc. Quincy Museum Education Revitalization Project Funds for Adams County, The Quincy Foundation Fund, Community Endowment Funds Quincy Public Library Quincy Public Library Big Read 2024 Funds for Adams County Quincy Public Schools Foundation General Support Funds for Adams County Quincy Society of Fine Arts Instant Arts Classrooms + Full School Arts Field Trips Irwin Family Fund, Funds for Adams County, Community Endowment Funds Quincy Symphony Orchestra Association Four Quincy Community Symphony Youth Program Jayne & Leroy Boeckelman Fund for Young Musicians, Dr. Robert & Shirley Murphy Endowment for Music Education, Cory Didriksen Lovelace Fund, Funds for Adams County Quincy University LiveU Solo Pro Equipment T. C. & Mary S. Oakley Descendants Fund Ralls County Health Department Portable Vital Signs Monitors Community Endowment Funds Salvation Army of Quincy Emergency Shelter Bedding Ralph Oakley Family Fund Salvation Army of Quincy Food Boxes for Veterans Diane Nielsen Gossard Memorial Fund Salvation Army of Quincy Furniture & Toys for Child Watch Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund Special Olympics Illinois - Region H General Support o James L. & Dorothy W. Rouner Fund, Community Endowment Funds St. Dominic School Hands On Arts Experiences Funds for Adams County Teresa Adams House General Operating Funds Funds for Adams County, Community Endowment Funds The Child Advocacy Center of Northeast Missouri, Inc. Program Expansion - Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Education Community Endowment Funds The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri Lewis County Mobile Food Pantry Lewis County Endowment Fund, Community Endowment Funds The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri Food Aid for Children in Monroe County, Missouri Community Endowment Funds The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri Food Aid for Shelby County, MO Shelby County Endowment Fund, Community Endowment Funds The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri Supporting Veterans in Knox County, MO Community Endowment Funds The Heritage Seekers, Inc. High School Student Volunteer Awards Palmyra Chamber of Commerce Prosperity Fund The Legacy Theater Foundation General Support Community Endowment Funds Transitions of Western Illinois Opportunities for Adults Who Have an Intellectual/Developmental Disability Funds for Adams County Two Rivers Regional Council of Public Officials SNAP to Success Matching Vocational Training Funds Pike County Endowment Fund United Way of the Great River Region Emergency Food Kit Program Hancock County Endowment Fund, Community Endowment Funds University of Illinois Extension Youth Leadership Academy Betty Schmidt Endowment Funds for Adams County, Community Endowment Funds Versailles Growth Committee Versailles Park Ballfield Community Endowment Funds Versailles Township Community Building Ceiling Brown County Endowment Fund, Community Endowment Funds West Central Child Care Connection Born Learning Project Funds for Adams County, Grace United Methodist Church of Quincy Fund West Central Illinois Agency on Aging Sound System for the Quincy Senior Center Programs/Events Funds for Adams County Western Illinois University Foundation Autism Center of Excellence, Program Support Jane's Kids' Fund, Community Endowment Funds YMCA of West Central Illinois - Quincy Family YMCA Capital Planning Study Funds for Adams County YWCA of Quincy YWCA Quincy Permanent Supportive Housing Ralph Oakley Family Fund, Funds for Adams County, City of Refuge Fund In addition to today’s presentation, County Fund Councils will present grants from County Endowment Funds. Participating counties include Brown, Hancock, and Pike in Illinois and Lewis, Marion, Monroe, and Shelby in Missouri. Fund councils from each county reviewed applications from local, eligible organizations and made recommendations on grants to be awarded to best serve each county’s needs and opportunities. Grants from the remaining County Endowment Funds will be presented at County Endowment awards presentations in each county. --- The Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri builds permanent charitable funds to assist area nonprofits and communities. Its mission, “connecting people who care with causes that matter,” is achieved by gathering funds, growing them through investments, then granting to nonprofit organizations, causes or communities that mean the most to its donors. Since 1997, the Community Foundation has made grants totaling more than $15 million in the 12-county service area of Adams, Brown, Hancock and Pike in Illinois and Clark, Lewis, Marion, Ralls, Pike, Knox, Shelby and Monroe in Missouri. The Community Foundation has IRS 501(c)(3) status, and contributions made to the Community Foundation generally qualify for the maximum allowable deductions for income and estate tax purposes. For more information, call 217-222-1237, email info@mycommunityfoundation.org or go to mycommunityfoundation.org or www.facebook.com/mycommunityfoundation