Thirteen Honored With Annual Awards

Even though the Community Foundation’s Annual Hearts of Gold Gala is cancelled this year, the organization will still be celebrating and honoring thirteen local philanthropists making a difference in east central Illinois.

This year, twelve individuals will be honored with the Community Foundation’s Hearts of Gold Awards. They are James Barham, Doug Bauling, Sergeant James Carter, Steve Hamburg, Debbie Hensleigh, Les Hitchens, Gay Holman, Rachel LeJeune, Kristyn McReaken, Cris Vowels, Ed Wilhite, and Lora Tempel Witheft.

Alice Lamb, front right, with family

Alice Lamb will be the recipient of the 2020 Kyle and Phyllis Robeson Philanthropy Award.

Joan Dixon, CFECI President and CEO said, “Even though we won’t be gathering this year to celebrate and honor these extraordinary unsung heroes and great role models, we wanted to recognize their extraordinary efforts. Each of these individuals gives of their time, talent and treasure to ensure the betterment of their community. And we are grateful for their contributions.”

 ABOUT HEARTS OF GOLD AWARD

Hearts of Gold Awards recognize everyday heroes who are generous with their time, talent or resources and add value to organizations they serve and communities they call home.

ABOUT KYLE AND PHYLLIS ROBESON PHILANTHROPY AWARD

The Kyle and Phyllis Robeson Philanthropy Award is bestowed upon others whose vision, philanthropic leadership and generosity have left an indelible imprint on the region.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF EAST CENTRAL ILLINOIS

Established in 1972, the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois has distributed more than $18 million in charitable grants to over 400 nonprofit organizations working to improve the quality of life in communities throughout the area. These charitable distributions include designated and undesignated gifts from endowments, field of interest funds, donor-advised funds and scholarships.

The Community Foundation stewards more than 150 funds and its total assets have grown from $1,300 in 1972 to more than $27 million today. The Community Foundation distributes nearly $1 million annually to nonprofit organizations providing vital services and enrichment to residents.