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The Foundation for NW Illinois joins Compeer Financial in Rural Collaboration Project
Save money with Focus on Energy
Chad Laibly from the Focus on Energy (FOE) program delivered a presentation entitled ‘Decarbonization Rebates’ to the Monroe County Climate Change Task force (CCTF) at their January meeting. Laibly is an Energy Advisor with the program.

FREEPORT — The Foundation for Northwest Illinois recently announced its partnership with Compeer Financial in the Rural Collaboration Project, an initiative designed to bolster rural vitality across the Midwest. The Foundation is a recipient of a $50,000 grant from Compeer Financial, and combined with The Foundation’s commitment to a dollar for dollar match, $100,000 will be used for rural vitality efforts throughout the region.

●  $25,000 to the Greater Freeport Partnership for BASE Camp which serves Stephenson County

●  $25,000 to Northwest Illinois Economic Development for Build It, Grow It, which serves Jo Daviess and Carroll counties

●  $10,000 to Boys and Girls Club of Freeport and Stephenson County toward their YIELD youth adult apprenticeship and mentoring program

●  $10,000 to Lena Business and Professional Association for continued development of Lena’s downtown business district and related efforts

●  $12,000 to Davis Community Center, Mount Carroll for continued development of their youth programming, especially their work with the Carroll County school districts and at-risk children

●  $7,500 to the Greater Freeport Partnership for downtown event development and promotions

●  $7,500 to the Freeport Art Museum for continued development of their downtown location

●  $2,500 to the Stockton Chamber of Commerce for continued downtown and event development in the community

The Foundation for Northwest Illinois is one of 13 community foundations across Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin awarded grants for the 2024 Rural Collaboration Project. 

The Foundation’s 2025 Grant Cycle is now open. This year, the process begins with nonprofit organizations submitting a Letter of Interest (LOI). The LOI allows for the opportunity to submit proposals without the immediate, lengthy application. Once LOI’s are received, notficiations will be sent out and invitations to submit the full grant application. To learn more, contact FNWIL


Save the Date

The Foundation for Northwest Illinois presents Gatsby Gala! Enjoy cocktails, food, live music and more at this memorable event! Proceeds benefit The Foundation’s Jane Addams Legacy Fund which supports the work of nonprofit organizations in support of the needs of women of all ages. Tickets and more information are available online.


Funds Making an Impact

Your gifts strengthen communities today and provide for an even stronger Northwest Illinois tomorrow. 

●  Marvin Wilson Community Impact Fund

●  Jane Addams Legacy Fund

●  Dan & Nancy Schmitt Family Fund

●  John M. Drogosz Youth Substance Abuse Prevention/Treament Fund

●  Freeport Area Church Cooperative Fund

●  Ian’s Fund for the Boys & Girls Club of Freeport & Stephenson County

●  Jeanette Lloyd Memorial Scholarship Fund

●  Luthin Family Endowment fund

●  NW IL / SW WWI Fund for Community Development

●  RC Miller Agriculture & Land Fund

●  Rachel & Roy Sellers Scholarship Fund

●  RAMP Endowment Fund

●  United Way of Northwest Illinois Endowment Fund