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The Foundation for Northwest Illinois Awards Grants to Strengthen Communities

by FNWIL | Jun 19, 2025 | 2025 Community Impact, Featured Stories, Rural Vitality, Stronger Together

The 2025 Community Impact Grants totalling $89,230.00 have been awarded to 13 organizations throughout Northwest Illinois. These grants were distributed as part of The Foundation’s commitment to support initiatives that ultimately strengthen communities through the promotion of of quality of life and help to futher community development and economic growth.

Community Impact Grants are made possible through The Foundation’s Marvin • Wilson Community Impact Fund as well as the John M. Drogosz Youth Substance Abuse Memorial Fund, the Luthin Family Endowment and the Don Morse Family Community Impact Fund. These grants are designed to fuel change in Stephenson, Jo Daviess & Carroll counties.

2025 Grant Recipients include:

The Boys & Girls Club of Freeport & Stephenson County
Gymnasium Wall Padding – $2000

Durand Area Food Pantry
Milke for All Guests – $4780

Freepod
Hispanic Community Audience Development – $1000

Freeport Public Library
Creating a Teen Space at FPL – $8000

Galena Art & Recreation Center
Still Art Life Classes – $1500

Hope WINS
Mac Camp Community Learning Experiences – $3500

Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation
Mighty Acorns Program – $5000

Lena Business & Professional Association
Improving Downtown for Increased Usefulness & Attractiveness – $14,850

Northern Illinois Food Bank
Mobile Market & Child Nutrition Support – $18,000

Senior Resource Center
Combating Social Isolation & Enhancing Quality of Life – $2500

St. John’s Lutheran Church
Grace Meals – $1000

VOICES of Stephenson County
VOICES Summer Kick Off Prevention Camp – $2500

Winneshiek Playhouse
Curtain Call Academy – $5000

Winneshiek Playhouse
Maintenance & Safety Plan Updates – $19,600