Latest News Archives - Galesburg Community Foundation https://www.yourgcf.org/category/latest-news/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:15:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://www.yourgcf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/GCF-Favicon-150x150.png Latest News Archives - Galesburg Community Foundation https://www.yourgcf.org/category/latest-news/ 32 32 Nonprofits and Teachers encouraged to apply for Community Fund grants from March 16- April 1  https://www.yourgcf.org/nonprofits-and-teachers-encouraged-to-apply-for-community-fund-grants-from-march-16-april-1/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 03:18:13 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=7292 From March 16 – April 1, nonprofit organizations that serve Alexis, Knoxville, Monmouth, Roseville, and Williamsfield are encouraged to apply for community grants.  These grants are possible because of the Community Funds in each town. Initiated by Galesburg Community Foundation and developed by local residents, Community Funds are built through gifts from individuals who love their communities. They are […]

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From March 16 – April 1, nonprofit organizations that serve Alexis, Knoxville, Monmouth, Roseville, and Williamsfield are encouraged to apply for community grants

These grants are possible because of the Community Funds in each town. Initiated by Galesburg Community Foundation and developed by local residents, Community Funds are built through gifts from individuals who love their communities. They are guided by local advisory boards empowered to award grants that positively impact their communities and residents. 

All 501(c)(3) nonprofit or public charities, including churches, schools, and government agencies, are eligible to apply. Grant recipients will be notified by May 1. Organizations may apply to both the Community Fund grant cycle and The Turnout, Galesburg Community Foundation’s competitive grant cycle. The Turnout will be open July 1-15. 

Community Funds have supported a wide range of local initiatives, including mobile radios for the Alexis and Williamsfield Fire Departments, assistance for the Knoxville food pantry, contributions to the Community Thanksgiving Dinner in Monmouth, and flowers to enhance downtown beautification efforts in Roseville. 

“Community Fund grants are designed to support the ideas and organizations that make our communities vibrant places to live,” said DeAnne Bloomberg, Vice President of Programs at Galesburg Community Foundation. “From education and youth programs to community improvements, these grants help local leaders turn great ideas into real impact.”  

In addition to community grants, Community Funds are also supporting local teachers by offering mini grants to enhance the classroom experience. From March 16- April 1, teachers in the Knoxville, Monmouth-Roseville, United and Williamsfield school districts are encouraged to apply for teacher mini grants. Proposals may be for classroom projects and materials up to $500. Grants must be for the 2026-27 school year, and recipients will be notified by May 1. 

Mini grants have been used by teachers in the region to purchase curriculum, books, musical instruments, science equipment, and other resources. 

For more information about Community Fund grants for nonprofits or teachers, contact DeAnne Bloomberg at info@yourgcf.org or 309-344-8898. 

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Meet our new Vice President of Programs – DeAnne Bloomberg   https://www.yourgcf.org/meet-our-new-vice-president-of-programs-deanne-bloomberg/ Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:21:28 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=7198 Galesburg Community Foundation is excited to announce that DeAnne Bloomberg has joined the team as Vice President of Programs.   DeAnne brings more than 35 years of experience in community engagement, communications, and leadership. She recently retired from the Illinois Farm Bureau, where she served as Director of Issue Management, overseeing organizational messaging, media relations, and strategic communications across multiple levels of […]

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Galesburg Community Foundation is excited to announce that DeAnne Bloomberg has joined the team as Vice President of Programs.  

DeAnne brings more than 35 years of experience in community engagement, communications, and leadership. She recently retired from the Illinois Farm Bureau, where she served as Director of Issue Management, overseeing organizational messaging, media relations, and strategic communications across multiple levels of the organization.  

“DeAnne joining our team further strengthens the thoughtful, effective grantmaking the Community Foundation is known for across our region. Her passion and expertise in advancing rural communities and western Illinois will help propel our mission and impact forward. I’m excited to welcome DeAnne to the important work of the Galesburg Community Foundation,” commented Josh Gibb, President and CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation. 

Originally from DeWitt, Iowa, DeAnne graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Public Service and Administration in Agriculture. Following graduation, she began her career as a county Farm Bureau manager in Boone, Henry, and Rock Island counties, before transitioning into statewide leadership roles at Illinois Farm Bureau.  

Throughout her life, DeAnne has been actively involved in her community, through various activities like 4-H, FFA, church activities, and volunteer efforts. She credits this early involvement with shaping her commitment to service and giving back. “I’ve always admired community foundations and the role they play in helping nonprofits and donors work toward meaningful, lasting impact,” DeAnne shared. “I’m honored to step into this role to help strengthen the good work already happening here.”  

In her role as Vice President of Programs, DeAnne will work closely with nonprofit partners across Knox, Warren, and Henderson Counties, oversee the grantmaking process from start to finish and support collaborative programs like the Hunger Collaborative. 

DeAnne and her husband live on a family farm in rural Orion. Outside of work, DeAnne enjoys spending time with her family, including nieces and nephews, and their dogs.  

Please join us in welcoming DeAnne Bloomberg to Galesburg Community Foundation! We look forward to all she will bring to this role!  

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Galesburg Public Library Foundation Announces Endowment Partnership with Galesburg Community Foundation   https://www.yourgcf.org/galesburg-public-library-foundation-announces-endowment-partnership-with-galesburg-community-foundation/ Thu, 20 Nov 2025 15:39:26 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=7017 Galesburg Public Library Foundation is proud to share that the Library Foundation Board of Directors has made a significant decision to establish endowment funds at Galesburg Community Foundation, for designated purposes of the Library and the Library Foundation.

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Galesburg Public Library Foundation is proud to share that the Library Foundation Board of Directors has made a significant decision to establish endowment funds at Galesburg Community Foundation, for designated purposes of the Library and the Library Foundation. This strategic partnership ensures the Library’s Foundation’s charitable resources are stewarded locally, with a focus on long-term sustainability and continued impact towards the needs of the Library and Library Foundation  

“This partnership helps secure the library’s future and reflects what Galesburg does best – coming together to invest in the community we share,” commented Heather Sipes, Executive Director of Galesburg Public Library.  

“We’re honored to partner with the Galesburg Public Library Foundation to help ensure its resources and services are available for generations to come,” said Joshua Gibb, President & CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation. “By establishing endowment funds at the Community Foundation, the Library Foundation is taking an important step to strengthen its financial sustainability and invest in the long-term vitality of their organization and the Galesburg Public Library.” 

Sue Dutell, President of the Galesburg Public Library Foundation, added, “Our Foundation has been fortunate to have extraordinary donors with the foresight to invest in our community library. They have left a legacy to continue supporting our programs and services. The funds we have been stewarding for many years will now be managed locally, through Galesburg Community Foundation, allowing us to better secure resources for the future. We are very excited for this new chapter!” 

In total, nine endowment funds have been created to support specific needs and programs of the Galesburg Public Library, including one fund designated for the general operations of the Galesburg Public Library Foundation. Together, these endowments will help ensure continued support for library programming, building maintenance, and educational opportunities for years to come. 

About Galesburg Community Foundation 

Galesburg Community Foundation develops and supports the efforts of local people and organizations to promote healthy communities. The Community Foundation makes giving easy and believes that generosity can positively change Knox, Warren, and Henderson Counties forever. The Community Foundation partners with individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits to help them have the greatest impact with their giving. The Community Foundation is working for the good of your community. Learn more at www.YourGCF.org.  

About Galesburg Public Library Foundation 

Established in 2007, the Galesburg Public Library Foundation, a 501(c)3 tax-exempt charitable institution, raises funds to strengthen the library’s resources and services, ensuring it remains a vital part of the greater Galesburg community. The Galesburg Public Library Foundation collaborates with the Galesburg Public Library to enhance and support its services, ensuring that every resident has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed. Learn more at https://thegplf.org  

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Galesburg Community Arts Center Endowment Match https://www.yourgcf.org/galesburg-community-arts-center-endowment-match/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:50:54 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=6914 Galesburg Community Foundation is offering a 2 for 1 matching grant to build the Arts Center’s endowment. For every $2 donated, Galesburg Community Foundation will donate $1, giving the organization an opportunity to raise a total of $300,000 toward its $1.5 million endowment goal. 

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For more than a century, Galesburg Community Arts Center (GCAC) has been connecting people in our region to the arts through exhibitions, education, and shared experiences.  

“Our mission has never changed,” shared Tuesday Çetin, Executive Director of Galesburg Community Arts Center. “We are here to connect our community to the arts because art is essential. It sparks conversations, lights up imaginations, and brings people together.”  

GCAC has partnered with the Galesburg Community Foundation over the last several years, and as part of their own strategic plan, is expanding their effort to further grow their endowment fund. An endowment fund provides a source of lasting support that is both stable and predictable even in uncertain economic times.  

“With this stable source of support, nonprofits can make long-term plans with confidence, remain resilient through economic shifts, and stay focused on delivering their mission,” said Sarah Grant, Galesburg Community Foundation Director of Development. 

Galesburg Community Foundation is offering a 2 for 1 matching grant to build the Arts Center’s endowment. For every $2 donated, Galesburg Community Foundation will donate $1, giving the organization an opportunity to raise a total of $300,000 toward its $1.5 million endowment goal. 

“For many donors, the match is a game-changer,” Çetin added. “It empowers donors at every giving level to know they’re making a significant difference.” 

Gifts made directly to the arts center’s endowment at Galesburg Community Foundation are eligible for an Illinois Gives tax credit, offering an additional way to maximize impact. Donors are encouraged to consult with their tax professional to determine if this would be beneficial to them and then contact Galesburg Community Foundation for guidance through the process. Learn more about Illinois Gives here.

With the initial campaign nearly halfway complete, Galesburg Community Arts Center is asking the community to join them in completing their ultimate endowment goal of $1.5M. This amount will fund its daily operations, which includes connecting the community and visitors to art experiences and supporting the local creative economy that includes connecting well over one hundred artists to economic opportunity. Operational support is critical to keeping admission free and arts opportunities accessible to all.  Just this year, over 23,000 people were able to appreciate art, participate in classes, and explore their own creativity at community events. 

“Every gift, no matter the size, helps us keep arts accessible in our community,” says Ҫetin, “accessible for children, adults, and seniors.  The arts are fundamental to our humanity – it helps us express our emotions, values, and connect with one another, it’s a universal way of telling our own stories.” 

To make a gift to the Galesburg Community Arts Center endowment fund at Galesburg Community Foundation, contact Sarah Grant, Director of Development, at 309-344-8898 or donate here. Donors wishing to take advantage of the Illinois Gives Tax Credit should contact Galesburg Community Foundation prior to making their gift.  

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Meet Amy Thompson: Galesburg Community Foundation’s Newest Board Member https://www.yourgcf.org/meet-amy-thompson-galesburg-community-foundations-newest-board-member/ Thu, 31 Jul 2025 14:00:46 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=6727 Galesburg Community Foundation is thrilled to welcome Amy Thompson to our Board of Directors!

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Galesburg Community Foundation is thrilled to welcome Amy Thompson to our Board of Directors!  

A lifelong resident of West Central Illinois, Amy brings a rich background in education, agriculture, and community leadership. She began her career as a junior high English teacher and volleyball coach before stepping away to raise her children. She then fully immersed herself in the world of service and volunteerism.  

Amy grew up on a farm outside of Stronghurst and her deep agricultural roots have shaped much of her community involvement. She served 10 years on the Warren-Henderson Farm Bureau board, including six as president, and is currently wrapping up her time on the Warren-Henderson Farm Bureau Foundation Board. Her community work also includes leadership roles with the Warren County Fair, where she has served as superintendent of both the general project and horticulture shows. She was also involved in the construction of a new building at the fairgrounds. 

While Amy currently works as a bookkeeper & secretary for Midwest Painting, she often describes herself as a “professional volunteer”, with a deep commitment to making her community stronger. She also serves on the Security Savings Bank Board, the Special Abilities Endowment in Warren County and is known for donating her baked goods – including her crowd favorite cheesecake – to charity events.  

When Amy is not volunteering, you can find her in her garden, lost in a mystery book, or perfecting her chocolate curls for her famous candy bar cake.  

“Amy Thompson is a thoughtful, proven leader who is deeply connected to our region. Her willingness to serve on our board brings with it the trust and respect she’s earned through a lifetime of leadership in our community. We are incredibly thankful to have her join us,” commented Joshua Gibb, President & CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation.  

Please join us in giving Amy a warm welcome. We’re excited for the passion, experience, and energy that she will bring to the Community Foundation board!  

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The Turnout Awards Grants to 42 Nonprofits   https://www.yourgcf.org/the-turnout-awards-grants-to-42-nonprofits/ Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:58:49 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=6703 Every year, Galesburg Community Foundation awards grants to regional nonprofits through its annual grant cycle, The Turnout. This year, 42 nonprofit organizations from Knox, Warren, and Henderson counties were fully funded, totaling more than $550,000.  

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Every year, Galesburg Community Foundation awards grants to regional nonprofits through its annual grant cycle, The Turnout. This year, 42 nonprofit organizations from Knox, Warren and Henderson counties were fully funded.  

Turnout grants utilize resources from the Community Foundation’s unrestricted Impact Fund and Field of Interest Funds along with contributions from generous community donors who hold Donor Advised Funds at the Community Foundation.  

“The Turnout is designed to elevate the voices of local nonprofits and provide them with a platform to clearly express their needs,” said Joshua Gibb, President and CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation. “It reflects the power of connecting donors directly with the work happening in our communities and their shared commitment to strengthening the region through meaningful, responsive grantmaking.” 

 This year, more than $550,000 was awarded to nonprofits, the most ever awarded through the annual grant cycle. This was due in large part to individuals and families with donor-advised funds at the Community Foundation.  

“It is an honor to facilitate connections between our donor advisors and causes they care about in our community,” said Sarah Grant, Director of Development. “The Turnout offers a unique opportunity to elevate local nonprofit work while engaging donors in strategic grantmaking that enhances the quality of life across our region.” 

To learn more about starting a Donor Advised Field of Interest Fund, reach out to Sarah Grant at sgrant@yourgcf.org or call 309.344.8898.  

See Who Received Grants  

Turnout grants support programs and projects in four areas: arts, culture, and community enhancement; health and human services; education and workforce development; and nonprofit capacity, sustainability, and reinvention. The following 42 nonprofits will receive full funding for proposals submitted for the 2025 grant cycle:  

Grant Recipients  

Alternatives for the Older Adult, Alternatives Caregiver Support Program 

Bishop Hill Heritage Association, 2026 Bishop Hill Civil War Days 

Blessings in a Backpack, Feeding Students: Addressing the Escalating Food Prices 

Buchanan Center For the Arts, Constructing a Legacy 

Camp Big Sky, Living a Life Like Any Other 

CASA of West Central Illinois, CASA of West Central Illinois Program Funding 

Choral Dynamics of Galesburg, Inc, Choral Dynamics of Galesburg – Benefit concerts 

Crime Stoppers of Warren County Inc, P3tips Technology Upgrade 

Discovery Depot., Smart from the Start 

Family Outreach Community Center, Essential Staffing for Community Stability and Support 

First Assembly of God Church of Abingdon, Equipping the Abingdon Community Center 

Galesburg Community Chorus, 2025-2026 Season 

Galesburg CUSD #205., Keisha Cares 

Galesburg Rescue Mission and Women’s Shelter, Strategic Project Management for Enabled Growth and Increased Impact 

Galesburg Youth Athletic Club, Continuing Carlos’ Legacy 

Habitat for Humanity of Knox County, IL, Community Engagement & Sustainable Fundraising Initiative 

Heart of Illinois Big Brothers Big Sisters, Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Mentoring Program 

Henderson County Fair Association, Family Night 

Henderson County Health Department, Technology Update 

Henderson County Historical Society Inc., Strategic Planning & 50th Anniversary 

Henderson County Public Library District, Supporting Independent Reading with Talking Books 

Henderson County Rural Health Center, Eagle View Community Health, Eagle View Essential IT Updates 

Historic Ellisville Restoration Organization H.E.R.O., Making Forgotonia Better 

Knox County Community Artisans, Knox County Community Artisans Administrative Coordinator 

Knox County Housing Authority, REST: Restore, Energize, Strengthen, Transform 

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois, Galesburg Children’s Services 

National Stearman Fly-In NFP Inc., National Stearman Fly-In Video Security Project 

Nova Singers, 2025 – 2026 Season 

Prairie Players Civic Theatre, Raise the Risers for Prairie Players Civic Theatre 

Prairie State Legal Services, Civil Legal Aid 

Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois, A Home Away From Home 

Roseville Kids Place, Early Childhood 2025 Operations 

Special Olympics Illinois, Region F Spring Games 

Strom Center, Inc., Henderson County Direct Client Assistance 

The Orpheum Theatre, Youth Entertainment Series 

Thrive Community Services, Senior Care in Knox County 

Triumph Services, Inc., Camp Kidz Day Camp 

TROLS Inc., TROLSINC 2025 

Turning Point Child Advocacy Center, TPCAC – Counseling Program & Transportation Support 

Two Rivers Arts Council, Henderson County MultiGenerational Arts Activities 

Warren Achievement Center, Community Integration 

Warren County Treasurer, Warren County Sheriff’s Office trail cameras 

About Galesburg Community Foundation 

Galesburg Community Foundation develops and supports the efforts of local people and organizations to promote healthy communities. The Foundation makes giving easy and believes that generosity can positively change Knox, Warren, and Henderson Counties forever. The Community Foundation partners with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits to help them have the greatest impact with their giving.  

Learn more at www.YourGCF.org

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Meet the New Manager of Community Treasures Thrift Store  https://www.yourgcf.org/meet-the-new-manager-of-community-treasures-thrift-store/ Thu, 12 Jun 2025 16:49:18 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=6670 What began as a shopper and volunteer, has grown into a new opportunity for leadership at Community Treasures, the thrift store owned and operated by Galesburg Community Foundation. Maureen Fesler, a longtime supporter and volunteer at the shop, has been named its new manager.   Fesler, a Galesburg native, grew up watching her mother run […]

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What began as a shopper and volunteer, has grown into a new opportunity for leadership at Community Treasures, the thrift store owned and operated by Galesburg Community Foundation. Maureen Fesler, a longtime supporter and volunteer at the shop, has been named its new manager.  

Fesler, a Galesburg native, grew up watching her mother run two A&W restaurants in the area, giving her an early introduction to customer service, operations, and community connections. Her first experience with retail was helping count change at the restaurants. “That’s how I learned math,” she laughed. “It was very effective.” 

After high school, she relocated to California to study at California State where she earned a degree in history and then went on to work at UC Berkeley in a number of administrative roles. She eventually returned home to Galesburg to be closer to family and since then has spent some time working with nonprofits and organizations that combined administration, advocacy, and direct service.  

As manager, Fesler will oversee store operations, including staff and volunteer supervision, customer and donor relations, oversight and cash handling procedures, product management, and policy enforcement.   

“I am excited to see Maureen step into this role at Community Treasures. Her passion for our mission and enthusiasm about the Shop’s work make her an ideal leader for this next chapter of the Shop’s impact in our region,” commented Josh GIbb, President and CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation.  

For Fesler, stepping into this role feels like a full-circle moment. “It’s kind of my dream job, honestly,” she said. “It combines everything I care about; I am really excited to be here.” 

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a first-time shopper, stop by Community Treasures to say hello and welcome Maureen to her new role!  

Community Treasures Shopping Hours  

Monday and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 

Sunday: Closed

 

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A Legacy of Generosity and Impact: Galesburg Community Foundation Launches “Land to Legacy” Program  https://www.yourgcf.org/a-legacy-of-generosity-and-impact-galesburg-community-foundation-launches-land-to-legacy-program/ Fri, 15 Nov 2024 14:37:14 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=6002 Galesburg Community Foundation is proud to announce the formalization of its farmland retention program, “Land to Legacy,” made possible through a gift from the estate of Anna Sophia Johnson. Anna’s gift, valued at approximately $8.5 million, marks the largest estate gift in the Foundation’s 20-year history, and includes farmland, which nearly doubles the amount of […]

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Galesburg Community Foundation is proud to announce the formalization of its farmland retention program, “Land to Legacy,” made possible through a gift from the estate of Anna Sophia Johnson. Anna’s gift, valued at approximately $8.5 million, marks the largest estate gift in the Foundation’s 20-year history, and includes farmland, which nearly doubles the amount of agricultural land owned by the Community Foundation.  

The Knox County farmland owned by Anna Sophia Johnson was a cornerstone of her life and her family’s legacy. As Anna crafted her estate plans, she prioritized preserving the land’s dedication to production agriculture while ensuring her philanthropic passions continued to make a difference beyond her lifetime. 

 “A significant asset within Anna’s estate was farmland here in Knox County. The Community Foundation has accepted and will maintain ownership of that land,” said Joshua Gibb, President & CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation.  “We are honoring the tenant relationship that Anna had, and we will use the income from owning and operating that land to fulfill Anna’s charitable interests.”  

Income from the Johnson farm will benefit not-for-profit organizations chosen by Anna during her lifetime, while also allowing the Community Foundation to address emerging regional needs, particularly in the arts community.  Additionally, the unique structure of the Community Foundation allows the ability to honor the tenant relationship that Anna had. 

“Galesburg Community Foundation provides an opportunity for people to leave a legacy that goes far beyond their lifetime and the Community Foundation is here just for that purpose.  Anna’s story is the perfect example of how individuals and families can use estate planning to continue their legacy for the benefit of their community,” commented David Erickson, Board Chairman of Galesburg Community Foundation.  

Anna’s inspiring story highlights the power of estate planning in creating a meaningful and lasting legacy.  Learn more about her story here: https://yourgcf.org/story_of_impact/annasophiajohnson/ 

For more information about estate planning or the “Land to Legacy” program, please contact Sarah Grant or Joshua Gibb at 309-344-8898 or visit yourgcf.org

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Meet Our New Communications Manager https://www.yourgcf.org/meet-our-new-communications-manager-2/ Tue, 23 Jul 2024 21:34:20 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=5730 Sometimes the perfect job just finds you, and for Karsyn Bennett of Williamsfield, that opportunity came right on time

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Sometimes the perfect job just finds you, and for Karsyn Bennett of Williamsfield, that opportunity came right on time. Bennett joined the team at Galesburg Community Foundation as the new Communications Manager, following the retirement of Cheri Siebken in June 2024. 

Bennett participated in the High School Diploma plus an associate’s degree from Carl Sandburg College while a student at Williamsfield High School. She then continued her education at Augustana College, where she studied Public Health, Psychology, Communication Studies, and Non-Profit Leadership.

Throughout her undergraduate studies, a deep-rooted commitment to service guided her path. “I developed a strong interest in nonprofits and desired to make a meaningful impact in the local area. The mission of the community foundation perfectly aligns with my passions,” she affirmed.

In the Communications Manager role, Bennett will lead the Community Foundation’s communications planning and implementation, working closely with the development, grantmaking, and leadership teams to oversee digital and print storytelling, media relations, and social media. Bennett is eager to infuse the position with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, amplifying awareness of the foundation’s impactful initiatives.

The team at Galesburg Community Foundation is delighted to have Bennett on board as well. “We’re so pleased to welcome Karsyn to our team,” said Joshua Gibb the Community Foundation’s president and CEO. “Please join me in extending a heartfelt welcome to Karsyn as she joins us in building stronger, healthier communities throughout our entire region.”

 

 

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Turnout Awards Grants to 41 Nonprofits https://www.yourgcf.org/turnout-awards-grants-to-41-nonprofits/ Mon, 08 Jul 2024 20:08:47 +0000 https://www.yourgcf.org/?p=5690 Every year, Galesburg Community Foundation awards grants to regional nonprofits through its annual grant cycle, The Turnout. This year 41 nonprofit organizations who submitted proposals were fully funded. Grants for The Turnout come from the Community Foundation’s unrestricted Impact Fund and Field of Interest Funds along with contributions from generous community donors who hold Donor […]

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Every year, Galesburg Community Foundation awards grants to regional nonprofits through its annual grant cycle, The Turnout. This year 41 nonprofit organizations who submitted proposals were fully funded.

Grants for The Turnout come from the Community Foundation’s unrestricted Impact Fund and Field of Interest Funds along with contributions from generous community donors who hold Donor Advised Funds at the Community Foundation.

“The goal of The Turnout is to empower local nonprofits to tell their story and ask specifically for what they need to make their important work happen. This year represents a significant milestone and reflects the growing generosity of our community and donors, as well as their commitment to empowering our local organizations,” says Jillian Isaacson, Director of Grants and Programs.

Donor Advisors Increase Gifts to Nonprofits

This year, more than $514,000 was awarded to nonprofits, a record-breaking amount for the annual grant cycle. This was in part thanks to individuals and families with donor advised funds at the Community Foundation.

“It’s an honor to connect our donor advisors with causes they care about. The Turnout provides a unique opportunity to make donors aware of the needs of local nonprofits while also collaborating with them to make grants that make our region a great place to live,” says Sarah Grant, Director of Development.

To learn more about Donor Advised Funds or Field of Interest Funds, reach out to Sarah Grant at sgrant@yourgcf.org or call 309.344.8898.

See Who Received Grants

Turnout grants are awarded in four areas: arts, culture, and community enhancement; health and human services; education and workforce development; and nonprofit capacity, sustainability, and reinvention. The following 41 nonprofits will receive full funding for proposals submitted for the 2024 grant cycle:

  • Alternatives for the Older Adult, Caregiver Support Program
  • B.Y.E. Ambulance Service, Inc., Start the Heart – Take 3
  • Bishop Hill Heritage Association, 2025 Educational Programming
  • Blessings in a Backpack-Galesburg, Feeding Students: Addressing Escalating Food Expenses
  • CASA of West Central Illinois, Program Funding
  • Christmas in Action, Operations
  • Discovery Depot Children’s Museum, Smart from the Start
  • Eagle View Community Health System, Capacity Expansion
  • Family Planning Service of Western Illinois, Inc., Service for All
  • Galesburg Public Library, Mobility Enhancement
  • Galesburg Community Arts Center, Multigenerational Arts Education Access
  • Galesburg Community Chorus, Spring Concert Multimedia Symphony
  • Galesburg Rescue Mission and Women’s Shelter, Strategic Planning
  • Galesburg Symphony Society, 2024-2025 Symphony Series
  • GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities, Destination Discovery
  • Girl Scouts of Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois, Leadership Program
  • Heart of Illinois Big Brothers Big Sisters, Youth Mentoring Program
  • Historic Ellisville Restoration Organization (H.E.R.O.), Making a future in Forgotonia
  • Knox County Community Artisans, Administrative Coordinator
  • Knox County Housing Authority, REST: Restore, Energize, Strengthen, Transform
  • Knox Jazz Year, Educational Programing
  • Maple City Field of Dreams, Inc., Operations
  • Monmouth-Roseville Education Foundation, Guest Conductor
  • National Stearman Fly-In NFP Inc., External Sound System
  • Nova Singers, 2024-2025 Season
  • Prairie Players Civic Theatre, Operations
  • Prairie State Legal Services, Inc., Civil Legal Aid
  • Rainbow Riders Therapeutic Horseback Riding Center, Operations
  • Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Illinois, Keeping Families Close
  • Roseville Kids Place, Operations
  • Special Olympics Illinois, Region F Spring Games/ Basketball Qualifying Tournament
  • The Orpheum Theatre, Youth Entertainment Series (YES)
  • Thrive Community Services, Senior Care in Knox County
  • Triumph Services Inc, Camp Kidz
  • TRoLS  (Trail Riders of Lake Storey), 2024 Trol Goals
  • Turning Point Child Advocacy Center, Trauma Counseling Program Support
  • United C.U.S.D. #304, United Intermediate School Stage Curtains
  • United Way of Greater Warren County, Imagination Library & Beyond With Reading Unplugged / Born Learning Trails
  • Warren Achievement Center, Community Integration
  • Warren County Historical Society, The Great Nicola Magic Festival
  • Western Illinois University Foundation, Expanding Service Delivery with the Western Autism Center of Excellence

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