December 15, 2020 – Several Chamber member businesses have reached out to the Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce looking to help the restaurant industry. Their vision was Chamber members helping Chamber members. After reaching out to restaurant owners and determining what employees need most, Project Cheer was developed. The goal was to not only provide a boost to those working tirelessly in the restaurant industry but also to help support the local economy.
Chamber member restaurant owners were informed of Project Cheer and were asked to submit those names of employees in most need. The DRCC partnered with the United Way of Decatur and Mid-Illinois to accept additional donations and through those generous contributions from Chamber member businesses, Project Cheer raised over $22,000. Debra Bogle, President of the UW of Decatur and Mid-Illinois, presented Chamber President Mirinda Rothrock with a check for the funds raised.
Funds were distributed to each employee in the form of Metro Money, the DRCC’s version of local gift certificates the week of December 14th. Metro Money can be redeemed at over 45 local businesses and is treated just like cash. This gift allows those employees the opportunity to purchase food, Christmas gifts, whatever is needed to lighten their load this December while also putting dollars back into our local community.
Donors of Project Cheer have asked to remain anonymous.
