There has been talk since the 1980s of establishing a community foundation in Macomb. Now that talk is translating into action.
Formation of the Macomb Community Foundation was announced at City Hall. The governing board is chaired by Jodi Pospeschil of Western Illinois University. She said the group has no particular projects in mind but its members know many could benefit.
“There’s just not a lot of money out there for projects right now (with) cuts in state and national funding, and there are a lot of organizations that don’t have a direct funding source or projects that people would like to see happen,” Pospeschil said.
Organizers said they want to provide money for projects that improve life in Macomb. The Foundation’s brochure indicates grants could be awarded to not-for-profit community groups in the arts and culture, community development, education, scholarship, health care, and human services.
Pospeschil said the Foundation has an account at MidAmerica National Bank, 130 North Side Square. She said donations can be sent to the bank or dropped off there.
“We don’t have any specific fundraising goals in mind. We just want to let people know that it’s here and that we’re here to support the community,” said Pospeschil.
Pospeschil said the Foundation has not scheduled any fundraising events. But she hoped there is enough of a balance by the end of the year to award a grant to a local project.
Volunteers spent the past year setting up by-laws and a framework for the Foundation. Other board members are Mayor Mike Inman, former mayors Bob Anstine and Tom Carper, Jim Lucie, Tim Moss, John Hallwas, Laura Leezer, and John Clerkin.
More information can be obtained by contacting Pospeschil at popsiclemail30@gmail.com
