October 20, 2026 – Andrea Gerhard of the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation joined Byers & Co to talk about grant programs, the Big Read, and to announce the 11 recipients of CommunityWorks grants totaling $118,000. Listen to the podcast now!
The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation (HICF) is awarding $118,000 to 11 organizations through its 2026 CommunityWorks grant program, supporting initiatives focused on education, environmental stewardship and workforce development across Macon, Moultrie and Piatt counties.
The grants will help local organizations expand programs, strengthen services and create opportunities that contribute to the long-term well-being of the region.
The CommunityWorks program is built on the belief that investments in education, the environment and workforce development can directly impact quality of life. Grant recipients will use the funding to support projects ranging from adult literacy and vocational training to supportive employment, family education and community nature initiatives.
The CommunityWorks Endowment Fund was established in 2005, when HICF was among 18 foundations initially selected to receive a CommunityWorks grant from the Grand Victoria Foundation. Donor contributions have helped meet matching requirements and sustain the fund as a source of local investment.
The 2026 program was initially structured to award $100,000 in grants, with individual requests ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. The foundation ultimately awarded $118,000 through this grant cycle.
Recipients include Marisa’s Purpose, which received $5,000 for its Clear Minds, Strong Futures Education Program; Moultrie County Counseling Center, awarded $5,780 for adult literacy and skill development; and Moultrie County Beacon, Inc., which received $6,720 for Open Future Learning at MCB.
Baby TALK, Inc. received $7,500 for community engagement and family education, while Piatt County Mental Health Center was awarded $10,000 for its vocational program. Dove, Inc. also received $10,000 for the Dove SkillsBuild Program, and the Lovington Working Women’s Collective received $10,000 for Learn Local: Skills for Life.
Macon Resources, Inc. was awarded $13,000 for its Supportive Employment Program. The Decatur Park District received $15,000 for The Clubhouse Dementia Friendly Pollinator Garden and Community Nature Sanctuary, while Scouting America – Macon County received $15,000 to expand scouting opportunities in Decatur.
Crossing Healthcare received the largest award, $20,000, for Crossing Recovery Pathways.
The foundation thanked all organizations that participated in the grant process, recognizing their commitment to serving residents and strengthening communities throughout the region.
HICF also announced upcoming grant opportunities for local nonprofits and schools. Its annual Microgrant Program will accept applications November 2 through November 30 for 2027 awards supporting professional development opportunities for nonprofit organizations in the foundation’s service area.
The She Gave Giving Circle Grant Program will accept applications November 18 through December 18. Awards will be presented at That’s What She Said on April 10, 2027. The program supports nonprofits and schools in Macon County serving women, girls and youth.
More information about grant opportunities, community initiatives and the foundation’s work is available through the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation’s website and Facebook page.
