The Foundation for Northwest Illinois

Toward a Thriving Tomorrrow

Your generosity has allowed us to be keepers of hope and builders of opportunity throughout our region. While our nonprofit granting and leadership programs have built a strong foundation…

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Building Bridges: Faith Leaders Convene to Strengthen Our Community

Apr 15, 2026

On February 24, The Foundation for Northwest Illinois hosted its first Faith Leaders Roundtable at our Freeport office. This gathering brought together local leaders to discuss the unique needs of our neighbors and explore how we can better support one another through...

King Campus Grant…for the “Soul” of the Community

Apr 15, 2026

The Foundation for Northwest Illinois recently launched the East of West initiative, a comprehensive community development program centered in the very heart of our city. More than just a neighborhood project, this initiative represents a homecoming to the historic...

Civic Health: A Core Focus of Community Philanthropy

Apr 14, 2026

Earlier this month, The Foundation for Northwest Illinois attended the Illinois Local News Summit in Chicago, co-hosted by Press Forward Chicago and Press Forward Springfield. This first-of-its-kind event brought together civic and community leaders, academics,...

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Individuals & Families

The Foundation empowers our clients to deepen their philanthropic impact through personalized giving vehicles like donor designated funds, donor advised funds, memorials, and more.

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Professional Advisors

The Foundation helps professional advisors connect their clients to locally focused philanthropic opportunities that really make a difference. With extensive knowledge of community needs and giving options, we enable you to better serve your clients by helping them achieve their charitable goals.

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Nonprofits

The Foundation helps nonprofits carry out their work by awarding grants, forging community partnerships and educating community philanthropists and partners about the organizations most aligned with their charitable interests.

Michelle DeHaven-Quast, CEO

Michelle DeHaven-Quast is an executive leader with nearly 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. As CEO, she leads the Freeport Community Foundation in quest of fulfilling its mission, inspiring donors and empowering community partners for a stronger Northwest Illinois. Read more…

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Our Mission: Inspiring Donors and Empowering Community Partners for a Stronger Northwest Illinois.