Our Funds at Work - Grantmaking in 2026
Grantmaking shows The Community Foundation's charitable support to local non-profits, programs, and initiatives. Bringing donor generosity to life in McHenry County. So far in FY26, The Community Foundation has granted over $1.5 million through grants and student scholarships. Below is a list of all organizations that have received grant funding.
Community Foundation Directed
These grants are awarded through The Community Foundation’s competitive grantmaking process. Local nonprofit organizations apply for funding, and each request is thoughtfully reviewed based on community needs, potential impact and alignment with the purpose of the charitable fund providing the grant.
These funds were established, and continue to grow, through the generosity of donors who trust The Community Foundation to identify and support important needs and opportunities throughout McHenry County. 2026 grant recipients, listed alongside the charitable fund that provided each grant, include:
Designated for Specific Non-Profits
These grants provide ongoing support to specific nonprofit organizations. Designated funds are established by donors who wish to support one or more named nonprofit organizations. Agency funds are established by nonprofit organizations to help protect, invest and strengthen their own charitable resources.
Together, these funds represent meaningful partnerships among donors, nonprofit organizations and The Community Foundation. We responsibly steward and invest the assets so they can provide dependable support, strengthen nonprofit sustainability and create additional opportunities for charitable giving. 2026 grant recipients include:
Donor Advised Fund Grants
These grants are recommended by individuals, families, businesses and other fund holders through donor-advised funds held at The Community Foundation for McHenry County.
Donor-advised funds offer a flexible and convenient way for donors to organize their charitable giving, support the organizations and causes that matter to them, and involve family members in philanthropy. Donors may also draw upon The Community Foundation’s local knowledge and expertise as they explore community needs and become more strategic in their giving. 2026 grant recipients include:
For questions or more information about The Foundation’s annual grant opportunities contact Jake Schlicht, Manager of Grants and Scholarships at [email protected] or call 815-338-4483.