August 5, 2026 – The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation recognizing seven individuals and organizations whose dedication, leadership and generosity have helped strengthen Macon County at the 2026 Do Something Great Awards.
Now in its 22nd year, the annual awards program celebrated community members who have made a lasting impact through volunteer service, philanthropy, advocacy, the arts and nonprofit leadership. Recipients were honored during a ceremony on Wed at the Mt. Zion Convention Center.
Darsonya Switzer, CEO of Dove Inc., received the Ray Batman Nonprofit Professional of the Year Award. Nominated by Mandi Podeschi of the Dove Inc. Board of Directors, Switzer was honored for her leadership of the organization and its broad range of programs supporting individuals and families facing housing insecurity, domestic violence, financial hardship and other challenges. At the awards ceremony, the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation also presented Switzer a suprise $10,000 grant for Dove, Inc.
The 2026 Award for Excellence in Inclusion was presented to two recipients.
Tom Miller was recognized for his decades of leadership in Scouting, education and youth development. Nominated by David Lane of Greater St. Louis Area Scouting, Miller has served as a Cubmaster, Scoutmaster and Summer Camp Director, mentoring countless young people and helping six Scouts achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. As Band and Orchestra Director at Johns Hill Magnet School, he has expanded opportunities for students through innovative programs and grant-funded initiatives.
Also receiving the Award for Excellence in Inclusion was Carmen Rivera, nominated by the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation. A business owner, community advocate and volunteer leader, Rivera currently serves as Interim President of the CHICO Board of Directors and President of the Northeast Community Fund Board. She is also active in immigration advocacy efforts and supports numerous charitable causes throughout the community.
The Outstanding Young Philanthropist Award was presented to the Decatur Blaze, nominated by Jennifer Dahn of PawPrint Ministries. The organization was recognized for its partnership with PawPrint Ministries’ comfort dog program, providing valuable training opportunities that help prepare comfort dog teams to serve in hospitals, schools, crisis response situations and other community settings.
Jeff Mays received the Ellsworth Dansby Jr. Volunteer Service Award for his longstanding commitment to youth mentorship and nonprofit leadership. Nominated by Saramanda Hall of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois, Mays has spent years mentoring local youth, serving on nonprofit boards and supporting charitable initiatives throughout the region.
The Preston Jackson Arts Award was awarded to Brigitta Kapp and the late Lucien Kapp for their extraordinary contributions to preserving and enriching Decatur’s cultural and artistic heritage. Nominated by Jami Fawley of the Decatur Area Arts Council, the Kapps were recognized for decades of historic preservation efforts, support of the arts and dedication to protecting some of the community’s most treasured landmarks.
The Robert and Bev Ketenbrink Community Commitment Award was presented to Bruce and Nancy Frey, nominated by Andrea Cardinal of Good Samaritan Inn. Since Bruce Frey’s retirement in 2013, the couple has dedicated countless hours to volunteer service, supporting organizations including Good Samaritan Inn, DOVE Inc., New Life Pregnancy Center and numerous community outreach efforts. In addition to volunteering their time, the Freys have generously supported local charitable organizations through financial contributions.
Since its inception more than two decades ago, the Do Something Great Awards have highlighted the individuals and organizations whose service, leadership and generosity continue to make Macon County a stronger and more vibrant place to live.
