The Ending Hunger Together Fund was established to address food insecurity in central Illinois by working to create a framework that mixes healthy food access, civic education and community development. HEAL Food System Partners, led by Tazewell County Health Department, and Peoria Grown for their Market 309 project, were each awarded $20,000 to continue their work to address food insecurity issues in the community. Watch the highlight reel from Ending Hunger Together Community Conversation event held February 21, 2023.

The Community Works grant is funded through the Gilmore Fund established at CFCI to promote job creation and job retention in the central Illinois area. This grant does not fund individual organizations working in isolation; it requires innovative collaboration among two or more organizations.

Community Works Grants 2023 Recipient: Adult and Teen Challenge of Pekin

Grant Amount: $50,000

Project: Natural Fiber Welding and Teen Challenge Recycling Partnership

Adult and Teen Challenge of Pekin is partnering with Natural Fiber Welding to meet production needs for the manufacturer and to provide full-time jobs in an emerging industry for men needing a second chance at employment. Natural Fiber Welding (NFW) is partnering with the Pekin Men's Center to assist in the shredding of scrap Mirum, a cutting-edge Natural Fiber Welding product line that provides a leather substitute material using natural and non-animal sourced materials.

Award Categories



Business / Professions Award-Sponsored by UnityPoint Health

Awarded to a woman who has excelled in her career and exhibited success in business, government, not‐for‐profit organizations or a profession.

Arts Award-Sponsored by Illinois Mutual

Awarded to a woman who has exhibited inspired leadership in the advancement of the visual and/or performing arts.

Education Award-Sponsored by Illinois American Water

Awarded to a woman who has had an accomplished career and demonstrated

leadership and excellence in the field of education.

Community Service Award-Sponsored by Kathy & Chuck Schaeffer

Awarded to a woman who has displayed leadership and made an

outstanding contribution to civic, charitable, religious or other community activities.

Emerging Leader Award-Sponsored by PNC

Honors a young woman between the ages of 25‐40 who is a role model

and demonstrates excellence and initiative in her chosen profession and service to the community.

Health Care / Wellness Award-Sponsored by Bard Optical

Honors a woman who has excelled in her career and exhibited

leadership in the fields of healthcare and/or wellness.

Young Woman’s Service Award-Sponsored by Church Women United

Awarded to a high school senior who excels in the areas of leadership and community service. This award includes a $1,000 college scholarship.

Nomination Criteria

• Nominees must physically live, work or attend school in the tri‐county area (Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford).

• Nominees must be currently active in the category in which they are nominated.

• You may only nominate a candidate for one category.

• Past recipients are not eligible in any category. 1978-2022 Leader Luncheon Award Recipients

• Current Women’s Fund Advisory board members, Leader Luncheon committee members, judges, and their spouses are not eligible.

Mark your calendars and save the date for our Annual Meeting! You're invited to join us on May 24, 2023, as we celebrate the impact we've made over the past year and discuss our vision for the future. This year's meeting will feature guest speakers, grant award announcements, and an opportunity to connect with fellow community members who share a passion for philanthropy. More details to follow soon. We hope you'll join us for this inspiring and informative event.