2024: Community Foundation of Central Illinois

The Community Foundation of Central Illinois has been a pillar of support for decades, contributing not only to the arts but also to essential services that improve our quality of life—from education to food security and beyond. With a history spanning 39 years, CFCI has distributed over $140 million across central Illinois, touching lives in countless ways. They are a ‘savings account’ for our community, investing in initiatives that serve both our immediate needs and our aspirations for the future.

This year alone,they have granted over $130,000 to arts programs, impacting fourteen local nonprofits. Through grant programs like the Community Arts Grants and the Arts Mean Business Fund, they have empowered local arts organizations to enhance arts education, foster economic growth, and promote arts tourism. By offering significant funding to arts nonprofits, they support initiatives that directly contribute to the cultural and economic enrichment of our region.

CFCI’s commitment to the arts extends beyond funding. It offers strategic support and counsel to help nonprofits grow and thrive. Since its inception, they have been a consistent source of guidance and encouragement, providing connections and resources that allow arts organizations to expand their reach and fulfill their missions. Whether it’s helping nonprofits access valuable partnerships or advising them on ways to broaden their impact, this organization’s contributions are woven into the very fabric of our community.

JOSE BECERRA

I’m Jose! I am a Senior at Bradley University with a Game Design Major and Film Studies Minor. So obviously, I love video games and movies, but really I love all forms of media and creative art! Outside of that I love listening to music, spending time with my family and friends, my baby brother, and my girlfriend!