Community Foundation Unveils New Name and Logo

The new name, the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation (HICF), represents a sense of place that is embraced by donors and nonprofits and communicates a powerful message that we are here to serve Central Illinois. The new logo is in the shape of a heart and celebrates the importance of agriculture in our region. The Foundation’s website is now heartofillinois.org.

The Foundation’s expanded service area, reflective of their commitment to strengthening the Central Illinois region, now includes Macon, Piatt and Moultrie Counties. In January, in collaboration with Decatur Earthmover Credit Union, the Foundation announced its largest discretionary grant program, the $1 Million Moving Forward program, to support nonprofits in these three counties.

“As an organization focused on growing philanthropy and collaboration in Central Illinois, now is the time to reintroduce ourselves to donors who may not know us, to regional funders who want to invest in our area and to partners in the communities we serve who want to help our region thrive,” said Kris Lutt, HICF board chair. “Our rebranding efforts will help us accomplish this goal.”

Thanks to the generosity of its donors, last week a major milestone was achieved: $50 million in grants awarded from the Foundation since it was founded in 2000. The Foundation stewards more than 400 funds and has total assets of over $56 million.

“One of the challenges with our prior name was that donors thought we only served Macon County,” HICF President Natalie Beck said. “We have a regional presence, so we wanted our name to reflect our commitment to helping communities located in the heart of Illinois. Existing at the intersection of the public, private and philanthropic sectors, our foundation is well positioned to develop local solutions for regional problems.”

Established in 2000, the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation stewards more than 400 funds and total assets of $56 million. To date, the Community Foundation has distributed $50 million to charitable organizations and endeavors. For more information about the Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, visit heartofillinois.org.