Uncategorized Archives - Galesburg Community Foundation

Meet our new Vice President of Programs – DeAnne Bloomberg

Khunt — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:21:28 +0000

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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Take advantage of the Illinois Gives Tax Credit in 2026

Khunt — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 15:21:37 +0000

In 2025, the State of Illinois introduced a powerful incentive to encourage charitable giving permanent endowment funds that benefit Illinois nonprofits and causes—and interest in the program continues to grow. The Illinois Gives Tax Credit allows donors to invest in the long-term well-being of their communities while also receiving a substantial tax benefit. With increased awareness and participation, credits are expected to be claimed much sooner in 2026, making early planning essential.

The Illinois Gives Tax Credit Program offers a 25% state income tax credit to taxpayers who make donations to permanent endowment funds held by Qualified Community Foundations, such as Galesburg Community Foundation. Credits are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and once they are gone, no additional credits are available for the year.

Endowment funds are designed to exist in perpetuity, with the principal invested to generate annual earnings that provide reliable, long-term support for charitable grants.

“Connecting donors to causes they care about is what we do best, and we’re thrilled to offer a way for donors to support their favorite nonprofits while also receiving a tax benefit,” said Sarah Grant, Vice President of Development at Galesburg Community Foundation. “This program generated nearly $1 million dollars of charitable giving in our region in 2025, and we anticipate that the tax credits will run out much sooner in 2026, we strongly encourage donors to start planning early and apply for the credit as soon as possible.”

To participate, donors must make their gift to a Qualified Community Foundation. Galesburg Community Foundation is proud to be among those eligible and is happy to guide donors through the application process. The maximum tax credit per taxpayer is $100,000 annually, making this an especially impactful opportunity for individuals and businesses with Illinois income tax liability.

If you are interested in taking advantage of the tax credit, please contact Sarah Grant, Vice President of Development at sgrant@yourgcf.org or 309.344.8898 to learn more. To view the full list of the eligible funds at Galesburg Community Foundation, click here.

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Illinois Gives Q&A with Dustin Courson, CPA

Khunt — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:20:08 +0000

Beginning in 2025, the Illinois Gives Tax Credit Act is designed to encourage charitable giving by offering eligible donors a state income tax credit. To provide clarity on how the program works and its benefits, we spoke with Dustin Courson, CPA, at Courson & Associates, LLC., about what donors should know when considering participation.

Q. What is the Illinois Gives Tax Credit?

A: The Illinois Gives tax credit is a non-refundable Illinois state income tax credit equal to 25% of a donor’s qualified contributions to a permanent endowment fund held by a Qualified Community Foundation, such as Galesburg Community Foundation.

Q. How is this different than a traditional charitable tax deduction?

A: A federal charitable deduction lowers taxable income, and the value of the deduction depends on your tax bracket. The Illinois Gives Tax Credit is different because it’s a state tax credit – it reduces the amount of state tax you owe, dollar for dollar. Credits are generally more valuable than deductions for this reason.

Q. Can you give a simple example of how a donor would benefit from the credit?

A: If a donor makes a $1,000 gift to an eligible endowment fund at Galesburg Community Foundation, they are eligible to receive a 25% state income tax credit—equal to $250. So, while they contribute $1,000, the actual out-of-pocket cost is only $750. One thing to keep in mind though: this is a non–refundable credit. If your Illinois state tax liability is less than the credit, you can only claim the credit up to the amount of your tax liability for that year. Any unused portion can be carried forward for up to five additional tax years.

Q. Is there a cap on how much credit a donor can receive?

A: Yes. The maximum credit per individual is $100,000, which corresponds to a $400,000 qualified charitable gift. For married couples filing a joint return, each spouse may claim up to $100,000 of credit on gifts they personally make, for a combined maximum of $200,000. In addition, the state caps the total credits it awards each year at $5 million statewide.

Q. What types of donors or situations are best suited for taking advantage of this tax credit?

A: This would benefit anyone that is charitably inclined and has Illinois state tax liability.

Q. How does this tax credit encourage local giving?

A: The great benefit of Illinois Gives is that the state essentially funds 25% of your gift, and that gift can stay right here in our region! Plus, because the gifts are made to permanent endowments, they’ll continue supporting local causes forever.

Q. What steps should a donor take if they’re interested in making a gift and applying for this tax credit?

A: Start by contacting Galesburg Community Foundation, or speak with your tax professional or financial advisor. You must first apply through MyTax Illinois for a Contribution Authorization Certificate (CAC). After the CAC is issued, you have 10 business days to complete your gift. Once the Foundation confirms receipt, a Certificate of Receipt (COR) will be posted to your MyTax Illinois account, and you will use that document when you file your tax return to claim the credit.

Q. If someone was on the fence about using it, what would you tell them?

A: I’d encourage them to take a closer look at the over 70 eligible endowment funds at Galesburg Community Foundation—or even think about starting their own fund for a cause they care about. If you’re passionate about making a lasting impact and you have Illinois tax liability, this is a significant opportunity worth considering.

To learn more about Illinois Gives and to view a full list of our eligible endowment funds visit yourgcf.org/ilgives, or contact Sarah Grant, Director of Development.

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The Turnout Awards Grants to 42 Nonprofits

Khunt — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 13:58:49 +0000

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 & 50^th 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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Local Community Funds Award 29 grants to charitable organizations

Khunt — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:42:24 +0000

Each year, Community Funds in Alexis, Knoxville, Monmouth, Roseville, and Williamsfield award grants through their annual community grant cycle.

Developed by local residents, Community Funds are built through gifts from individuals who love their communities. They are funds of Galesburg Community Foundation and are guided by local advisory boards who are empowered to award grants that positively impact their communities and residents. All 501(c)(3) nonprofit or public charities, churches, schools, and government agencies, serving these communities were eligible to apply.

This year, more than $35,000, including nearly $10,000 of co-grants, was awarded to local nonprofits. In addition to community grants, Community Funds and other cooperating funds supported local teachers by offering mini grants to enhance the classroom experience. More than $14,000 was awarded, supporting 31 teachers among the Knoxville, Monmouth-Roseville, United, and Williamsfield School Districts.

“These grants show what’s possible when local people come together with a shared purpose” says Jillian Isaacson, Galesburg Community Foundation Director of Grants and Programs. Community Funds continue to strengthen our region by supporting local organizations through granting to address needs within their own communities.”

The following organizations received funding through the community grant cycle:

Alexis Community Fund Grants

Alexis Fire Department, Operations

Alexis Museum, Stairway Lift

Alexis United Presbyterian Church, Accessible Restroom

CASA of West Central Illinois, Volunteer Recruitment and Volunteer Supervision

Triumph Services, Inc., Camp Kidz

Warren County YMCA, Camp Meskwaki Campus Project

Knoxville Community Fund Grants

Knoxville CUSD #202, Blessings in a Backpack

Grace Lutheran Church, Grace Little Food Pantry

Knoxville Community Food Pantry, Operations

CASA of West Central Illinois, Volunteer Recruitment and Volunteer Supervision

Galesburg Youth Athletic Club, Continuing Carlos’ Legacy

Triumph Services, Inc., Camp Kidz

Knoxville CUSD #202, Sunshine Fund Attendance Initiative

FTC Team 23690 TMT, Robotics Team Support

Knoxville CUSD #202, Project Graduation

Monmouth Community Fund

Warren County Public Library District, Summer Reading Program 2025

Buchanan Center for the Arts, Arts for All Programming

CASA of West Central Illinois, Volunteer Recruitment and Volunteer Supervision

Warren County YMCA, Camp Meskwaki Building Enhancement

First Christian Church, FCC Food Pantry Glass Door Cooler and Freezer

Highpoint Church, Community Thanksgiving Dinner

Warren County Historical Society, Museum Collections Storage Expansion

Roseville Community Fund

Village of Roseville, Downtown Flowers

CASA of West Central Illinois, Volunteer Recruitment and Volunteer Supervision

Warren County Historical Society, Museum Collections Storage Expansion

Triumph Services, Inc., Camp Kidz

Williamsfield Community Fund

Spoon River National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, Vietnam Veteran Diaries

CASA of West Central Illinois, Volunteer Recruitment and Volunteer Supervision

Williamsfield Fire Protection District, Multi-Band Portable Radio

For more information about Community Fund grants for nonprofits or teachers, contact Jillian Isaacson at info@yourgcf.org or

309-344-8898.

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A new state income tax credit program for Illinois Donors: The Illinois Gives Tax Credit

Khunt — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 21:30:57 +0000

As of January 1, 2025, Illinois donors can now receive a 25% state income tax credit for gifts made to eligible permanent endowment funds at Qualified Community Foundations.

Galesburg Community Foundation is proud to be approved by the Illinois Department of Revenue as a Qualified Community Foundation, as required for the Illinois Gives Tax Credit Act.

“This tax credit highlights the critical role Illinois Community Foundations have in building endowment resources that can support our local communities for generations to come,” said Joshua Gibb, President and CEO. “We are excited to partner with our donors, offering them not only a chance to support their community but also a tax benefit.”

Donors can receive a tax credit of 25% of the eligible gift—up to a maximum of a $100,000 credit for a $400,000 gift per taxpayer.

“There’s no better time to invest in the future of our community than now,” added Sarah Grant, Director of Development at Galesburg Community Foundation. “The Illinois Gives Tax Credit is a fantastic opportunity for donors to make a lasting impact while benefiting from tax savings. We encourage anyone that is interested to reach out to us for guidance on how they can make a gift to one of our many eligible permanent endowment funds.”

To take advantage of the Illinois Gives Tax Credit, donors must register with MyTax Illinois and apply for a Contribution Authorization Certificate (CAC) through their MyTax account before making an eligible gift. A limited number of dollars are available for this program each year.

For assistance with the process, or to learn more about the program, visit yourgcf.org/illinoisgives or contact Josh Gibb or Sarah Grant at 309-344-8898.

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Year-End Giving and Granting

Karsyn — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 20:17:52 +0000

The holiday season is here, and it’s time for year-end giving and granting. Here are a few reminders to keep in mind as you finalize your year-end plans.

Make sure all donations are completed before December 31, 2024. Gifts by cash, check, or credit card must be initiated by December 31 to be credited for the 2024 tax year. Gifts sent by mail must be postmarked no later than December 31.

Online gifts can be made until 11:59 p.m. central time on December 31 and still be credited in 2024. Click here to make an online gift now.

If you plan to give a gift of appreciated assets, including stock or IRA distributions, initiate it before December 16^th to ensure it is credited for the 2024 tax year. Notify us of any gifts from more complicated instruments as soon as possible to ensure they are completed on time.

Consider a gift to Galesburg Community Foundation’s Impact Fund, and join us in supporting unrestricted needs across the region. If you would like to explore other giving options, please contact us.

You can also consider a gift to one of our five community funds. These funds ensure that community needs are met today and well into the future. Learn more about our community funds here!

Donor-advised fundholders, please submit any grants you wish to make in 2024, by December 16^th to ensure the grantee receives the gift by December 31st. For support making a grant recommendation, contact the office at 309-344-8898 or info@yourgcf.org.

Our office will be open on December 23, 27, and 30 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on the 31st from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. If you seek assistance outside of these hours, please leave a message by calling 309.344.8898 or email us at info@yourgcf.org.

Thank you for your support in all that we do.

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Galesburg Community Foundation Earns National Standards Re-Accreditation from the National Council on Foundations

Karsyn — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:51:03 +0000

Galesburg Community Foundation recently received National Standards re-accreditation from the National Council on Foundations.

Community Foundation National Standards establish legal, ethical, effective practices for community foundations everywhere.

Galesburg Community Foundation originally earned accreditation in 2010. Accreditation must be re-established every three years through a comprehensive assessment process, requiring community foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grantmaking, and administration, requiring the foundation to demonstrate compliance with 26 national standards.

“Earning National Standards re-accreditation is an important distinction for us as a Community Foundation,” shared Joshua Gibb, President and CEO of Galesburg Community Foundation. “It reaffirms our commitment to transparency, accountability, and philanthropic excellence. This accreditation enhances our ability serve as trusted partners to our donors, strengthen our community, and deliver our mission with integrity and impact.”

Galesburg Community Foundation helps individuals support the causes they care about through philanthropic services, strategic investments, and community partnerships.

“National Standards accreditation not only validates our practices but also assures our donors that we are a responsible, accountable steward of their charitable investments. This accreditation is essential for building trust and confidence, ensuring that every gift we receive is used effectively and donor intent is honored to the highest standard,” said David Erickson, Galesburg Community Foundation Board Chairman.

For more information on the accreditation process and standards, visit cfstandards.org.

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Galesburg Community Foundation Celebrates Addition of Henderson County into Service Area

Karsyn — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:48:18 +0000

Galesburg Community Foundation is proud to announce its service area will now include all of Henderson County. To celebrate this milestone, the Community Foundation has awarded grants to thirteen nonprofit organizations located in or serving Henderson County.

In partnership with the Twomey Foundation and the Cavins Family Foundation Fund, a total of $100,000 was awarded amongst the nonprofit organizations. These funds can be used for any need an organization has, including general operations.

“The addition of Henderson County into our service area marks a significant milestone for us as a foundation. We are grateful for the opportunity to continue working for the betterment of our region and look forward to seeing the impact that working with donors and nonprofits in Henderson County will bring,” Joshua Gibb, Galesburg Community Foundation President & CEO.

Future granting opportunities and partnerships, including the Community Foundation’s annual grant cycle, The Turnout, will be open to all Henderson County nonprofits. To learn more about The Turnout, visit yourgcf.org/turnout.

Grant Recipients

The following thirteen organizations received grants:

Community Senior Center Inc.

Eagle View Community Health (Henderson County Rural Health Center)

Family Outreach Community Center

Henderson County Fair Association

Henderson County Health Department

Henderson County Historical Society

Henderson County Public Library

Henderson County Ambulance Services

Jamieson Community Center

Strom Center

Two Rivers Arts Council

Village of Oquawka

West Central Educational Foundation

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.

Learn more at www.YourGCF.org.

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5 Reminders for Year End Giving

Karsyn — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 14:44:26 +0000

As the year comes to a close, now is a good time to take a moment to reflect on how you can make a difference in your community. One way to make a positive impact is by donating in honor of a friend or loved one. It’s a gift that always fits perfectly!

Here are five important reminders for end-of-year giving:

Looking for help choosing the best way to share your generosity this year? You can view our options for giving here. Contact us at 309.344.8898 to discuss your ideas and options. You might also consider giving to the GCF Impact Fund to join with others in supporting unrestricted needs across our communities.

Online gifts can be made until 11:59 p.m. Central Time on December 31 and still be credited in 2024. Make your year-end gifts online now.

Charitable gifts of stock and other appreciated assets are excellent options to consider gifting and can potentially result in considerable savings from income and capital gains taxes. Please contact our office at 309.344.8898 by Monday, December 16, about gifts of stock, IRA distributions, or grain.

If you are 70 ½ or older, you can make Qualified Charitable Distributions gifts of up to $105,000 from your IRA. These gifts should be initiated by December 16, 2024.

Donations by check should be postmarked no later than December 31, 2024. Mail to Galesburg Community Foundation, 246 E. Main Street, Suite 101, Galesburg, IL 61401. Make all gifts payable to “Galesburg Community Foundation,” with the fund name noted on the memo line.

Our office will be open December 23, 27, and 30th from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and the 31st from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 pm. If you want to discuss your options for giving or have questions, contact Sarah Grant, Director of Development, at 309.344.8898, or email info@yourgcf.org.

Thank you for all you do to build stronger, healthier communities in Knox, Warren, and Henderson Counties.

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