Nomination Period Opens for 21st Annual Do Something Great Awards

The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation's 21st Annual Do Something Great Awards will be held Friday, July 25th from 11:30am -1:30pm on the campus of Millikin University.

This annual awards program honors amazing individuals and organizations who have made a significant positive impact on Macon County through giving of their time, talent and/or treasure. The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation (HICF) has hosted this program for the past 21 years.

Nominations for the Macon County Do Something Great Awards are now being accepted through May 23. This year’s awards features seven categories. Each nomination, along with a brief statement explaining why the nominee is deserving of recognition, should be emailed to kfarrar@heartofillinois.org.

“The annual Do Something Great” awards recognize and celebrate outstanding Macon County individuals, couples and/or businesses for their philanthropic impact,” said Natalie Beck, HICF CEO. “We welcome all nominations and look forward to recognizing the recipients who, through their giving and leadership, have made a remarkable difference in our community.”

For more information about the Do Something Great awards program, call Kaitlyn Farrar at 217.429.3000 or send an email to kfarrar@heartofillinois.org. To view past recipients visit this link: Do Something Great Award Recipients


Do Something Great Award Categories

Award of Excellence for Inclusion
Award honors a nonprofit organization/or individual at the frontier of advancing inclusion and working toward an equitable Macon County community. The nomination should include evidence demonstrating an ongoing commitment to inclusion within Macon County, and to serving as an advocate for the interests of underrepresented populations.

Outstanding Young Philanthropist
Award recognizes service by an individual under age 40 who demonstrates outstanding commitment to the community through direct financial support, development of charitable programs, volunteerism and leadership in philanthropy.

Ellsworth Dansby Jr. Volunteer Service Award
Award presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, devoted great time and effort to charitable causes, and shown a deep commitment of voluntary action to address community needs.

Outstanding Professional Partner
Award presented to a business/professional partner that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to philanthropy by aiding nonprofit organizations in our community. The nomination should include evidence of direct financial contributions to and/or support of the community, impact of financial support or projects in the community, and specific achievements launched through the corporation’s philanthropic efforts.

Preston Jackson Supporter of the Arts
Award honors creators, conceivers, radical thinking and risk-takers providing philanthropic support to the arts in Macon County.

The Ray Batman Nonprofit Professional of the Year Award
Award presented to an individual paid professional who has demonstrated outstanding commitment, dedication and talent toward helping society. This may include (but is not limited to) executive directors, directors of development, program directors and support staff at a nonprofit organization.

Robert and Bev Ketenbrink Community Commitment Award
Award presented to an individual, a couple or a family with a record of exceptional generosity, demonstrated outstanding civic or charitable responsibility, and leadership that has encouraged and motivated others toward roles in philanthropy. This award includes a $1,000 grant to the recipient's charity of choice.