June 23, 2026 – A new $20,000 matching fund is being launched to encourage charitable giving across Central Illinois.
Matt and Natalie Beck have established the Beck Illinois Gives Challenge, which will provide a 10% match on qualifying donations made through the Illinois Gives program to eligible endowed funds at the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation.
The challenge is available while funds remain and is designed to complement the Illinois Gives program, which offers donors a 25% Illinois state income tax credit on qualifying contributions. Combined, the tax credit and matching funds create an enhanced opportunity for donors to support causes and organizations throughout the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation’s three-county service area.
For example, a $500 gift would generate a $125 state tax credit and receive an additional $50 match through the Beck Challenge. A $1,000 donation would result in a $250 tax credit and a $100 match.
“Illinois Gives provides a unique opportunity for donors to maximize both their charitable impact and tax benefits,” said Natalie Beck, CEO of the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation. “We hope this challenge encourages more people to invest in the long-term success of the organizations and causes that make our community stronger.”
To qualify, donors must make an Illinois Gives contribution to an endowed fund benefiting an organization or cause located within the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation’s three-county region.
For more information about Illinois Gives and the Beck Illinois Gives Challenge, contact the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation at 217-429-3000.
