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Peoria, IL 309-674-8730
Formal check presentation to be hosted on August 31st at 3:45 p.m.
On Thursday, August 31, 2017, The Emerging Philanthropists Fund of the Community Foundation of Central Illinois (CFCI) will formally present a check in the amount of $4,300 to Friends of Proctor Center as the recipient of their 2017 grant. The presentation will take place at 3:45 p.m. at the Sovereign Grace Baptist Church located at 1505 W. Martin St. in Peoria.
CFCI’s Emerging Philanthropists Fund is an initiative designed to invigorate emerging community leaders to join together as philanthropists. The members are comprised of a cross section of professionals in central Illinois who have an interest in making a positive impact on the quality of life in our community through grantmaking. Collectively, members build the Fund, and these funds are invested with a percentage being made available to be distributed each year through the grantmaking process.
The 2017 Emerging Philanthropists Grant was awarded to Friends of Proctor Center to support “A Show of Hands”, a program designed to provide a unique opportunity for youth, families and the community residents of Peoria’s 61605 zip code to participate in “handball” activities. Once established, the program will collaborate with other interested parties to bring this unique experience to surrounding areas.
When speaking about the Friends of Proctor Center and the “A Show of Hands” initiative, Hedy Elliott-Gardner, Coordinator of Adult Learning for the Peoria Park District Foundation and Friends of Proctor Board Member said, “Our mission is to provide unique, inexpensive opportunities to youth and adults in South Peoria. Handball is a life long sport that will keep youth and adults active and healthy for many years to come.”
In addition to the program, Friends of Proctor Center plans to build a community space that serves not only as a handball court, but as a place for the neighborhood to gather and host events. Renowned local artist Preston Jackson has graciously agreed to paint a mural on the handball court to enliven this unique space. The program and space will serve as an amenity to neighborhood residents and will help draw people from all across the community to the Southside of Peoria.
About Proctor Recreation Center
Built in 1913, Proctor Recreation Center is operated by the Peoria Park District. Amenities include a swimming pool, two gymnasiums, an auditorium, outdoor basketball courts, a playground, and the African American Hall of Fame Museum. To learn more Proctor Center and the Peoria Park District, please visit www.peoriaparks.org.
About the Community Foundation of Central Illinois
Established in 1985, the Community Foundation of Central Illinois is a philanthropic resource committed to connecting people who care with causes that matter. For more information please call 309-674-8730 or log on to communityfoundationci.org.
