June 6, 2023- The Community Foundation of Macon County has announced the 19th Annual Do Something Great Award winners. The awards recognize individuals and organizations who have made a significant positive impact on Macon County through giving of their time, talent, and/or treasure.
The award winners were announced during Byers & Co on WSOY 1340am/103.3fm.
The honorees will be recognized during the Do Something Great Awards on Wednesday, August 2nd from 11:30am -1:30pm at Richland Community College.
Award of Excellence in Inclusion – Rich Hansen
Rich Hansen was nominated by Evelyn Hood, Executive Director African American Cultural and Genealogical Society of Illinois Museum. Rich, who is a board member for the museum, is also a teacher in Mt. Zion who brings his students to the museum to help educate and create exhibits.
Outstanding Young Philanthropist – Ken Parks and the Maroa-Forsyth National Honor Society
Ken Parks and the Maroa-Forsyth National Honor Society were nominated by Joanie Keyes, Director Special Olympics Illinois – Region I. For 5+ years, Maroa-Forsyth National Honor Society students have raised over $60,000 for the Illinois Law Enforcement Polar Plunge which benefits the Region I Special Olympics. The group has won the Cool School Challenge for raising the most funds in a 17-county area and they always donate the winning prize money back to the Special Olympics. Ken is a math teacher at MFHS and a teacher sponsor of the National Honor Society
Outstanding Volunteer/Board Member -Kay Nims
Kay Nims nominated by Rikki Parker, Executive Director Children’s Museum of Illinois. Kay volunteers at the CMofI every Tuesday morning at the front desk. As a former museum board member, Kay and her family help at all museum events. In her nomination, Parker shared that she views Kay as the “patron saint” of the museum.
Outstanding Professional Partner – Nick Lane at JT Net
Nick Lane at JT Net was nominated by Natalie Beck, President of the Community Foundation of Macon County. Along with creating many websites for area nonprofits, Nick Lane designed the interactive community wish list for the CFMC site, resulting in over $400,000 in financial gifts to area nonprofits in just two years.
Outstanding Philanthropic Support of the Arts – Dina Fryman
Dina Fryman was nominated by Jerry Johnson, Executive Director Decatur Area Arts Council, and Penny Williams, Theatre 7. Dina has volunteered with Theatre 7 for the past 41 years. She has served as the costume designer for over 40 shows. Has served on the board of Theatre 7 in various roles.
Ray Batman Nonprofit Professional of the Year – Gail Evans
Gail Evans was nominated by Angel Lawrence, Executive Director Northeast Community Fund. Gail is the former executive director of the Decatur Macon County Opportunities Corporation. Evans is a Northeast Community Fund board member and is responsible for implementing many social service programs in our community.
Robert & Bev Ketenbrink Community Commitment Award- Vinnie and Debra Barbee
Vinnie and Debra Barbee was nominated by Brian Conerty, Manager of Water Street Mission. The Barbees provide Thanksgiving and Easter meals for those in need. They have car shows and raise funds to purchase toys for area children. For over 22 years they have helped feed the homeless at Water Street Mission. They also host a block party in August to feed those in need as well. They are known as Decatur’s first couple of food philanthropy.
Natalie Beck and Missy Batman of the Community Foundation joined Byers and Co to announce the winners of the Do Something Great Awards. Listen to the podcast now!
