Gatsby Gala Archives | The Foundation for Northwest Illinois

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Michelle DeHaven Quast | Michelle DeHaven-Quast is an executive leader with nearly 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. As President & CEO, she leads the Foundation for Northwest Illinois in quest of fulfilling its mission, inspiring donors and empowering community partners for a stronger Northwest Illinois.. Read more... Sarah Flashing Clow | Sarah Flashing-Clow serves The Foundation for Northwest Illinois as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives. Her primary responsibility is to carry out the Foundation’s marketing & communications objectives by developing and implementing strategies that elevate awareness of the Foundation and its engagement in northwest Illinois. Read more... Jill Freese | Jill Freese serves as Director of Operations at The Foundation of Northwest Illinois. Jill has deep connections to our region, having lived in Stockton for nearly 30 years. She is happily married and has three wonderful children and two grandchildren in Jo Daviess County. Her dedication to her community is evident through my ongoing role as the Secretary to the Stockton Chamber of Commerce. Read more...

Whether you have questions about starting a fund, applying for a grant, or exploring ways to give back to your community, our team is here to guide you. At The Foundation for Northwest Illinois, we believe that every meaningful change begins with a simple conversation. Please reach out to us directly to learn more about how we can work together to strengthen our region. We look forward to connecting with you and helping you turn your philanthropic vision into a lasting community impact. Contact Us The Foundation for Northwest Illinois (Main Office) 1525 S. Forest Rd., Suite 200, Freeport, IL 61032 Info@fornwil.org The Foundation for Northwest Illinois (Galena Office) 800 Spring St., Galena, IL 61032 Info@fornwil.org

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Welcome to the Media Center for The Foundation for Northwest Illinois, your primary resource for stories on regional philanthropy and community impact. We are dedicated to inspiring donors and empowering community partners to build a stronger, more flourishing Northwest Illinois through strategic grantmaking and collaborative leadership. Whether you are looking for press releases, high-resolution logos, or expert commentary on local nonprofit trends, our team is here to provide the insights you need. For all media inquiries or interview requests, please contact Sarah Flashing-Clow, Community Relations Director, at sarah@fornwil.org. Media Center.

2026 Jane Addams Legacy Award Honoree: Pat Norman

by FNWIL | Feb 3, 2026 | Gatsby Gala, Jane Addams Legacy Award, Jane Addams Legacy Fund, News, Press Release

Patricia Norman is a distinguished educator, community leader, and tireless advocate for social justice who has dedicated her life to the betterment of her community. As the 2026 recipient of the Jane Addams Legacy Award, Patricia is recognized for her visionary...

Gatsby Gala 2025: The Wrap-Up

by FNWIL | Apr 1, 2025 | Gatsby Gala, Jane Addams Legacy Fund, News

The Foundation for Northwest Illinois hosted the first ever Gatsby Gala at The Freeport Club on March 22. Gatsby Gala proceeds benefit The Foundation for Northwest Illinois’ Jane Addams Legacy Fund which provides support to nonprofit organizations working to...

Jananne “JR” Schaffner, 2025 Recipient of the Jane Addams Legacy Award

by FNWIL | Mar 11, 2025 | Gatsby Gala, Jane Addams Legacy Award, Jane Addams Legacy Fund, Press Release

At the Gatsby Gala, The Foundation honors local women who, through visionary thinking, leadership, and philanthropy, have made a difference in the lives of others. Like Jane Addams, the recipient of the Jane Addams Legacy Award is a shining example of moral courage,...

The Foundation for Northwest Illinois Announces 2025 Gala Co-Chairs

by FNWIL | Jan 2, 2025 | Events, Gatsby Gala, Jane Addams Legacy Fund, News, Press Release

FREEPORT, IL (January 2, 2025) — The Foundation for Northwest Illinois is pleased to announce that local businesswoman Doreen O’Brien of Big O’s on the Hollow and attorney Bridget Trainor of Elliott, Trainor & Weller, P.C., are serving as the 2025...

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The Foundation for Northwest Illinois
1525 S Forest Rd Suite 200
Freeport, IL 61032

(815) 801-3035

info@fornwil.org