ROCHELLE — Tuesday, Nov. 30 was a day to celebrate as the community came together in generosity to give over $9,300 in support of Rochelle Area Community Foundation (RACF) funds.

#GivingTuesday is a day of global generosity that unleashes the power of philanthropy to help transform communities. RACF had the privilege to partner with Hastings Mutual Insurance and Query Insurance: A Division of CrumHalsted on a match challenge gift of $1,000.

The goal was to raise gifts online or in person to meet the challenge set forth.

“To be offered this opportunity was something RACF was excited for,” Executive Director Emily Anaya said. “I knew I could work with my hardworking and dedicated board members to be resourceful and come up with exciting and fun ways to meet, and try to exceed, this $1,000 match.”

Upon hearing about this challenge, Ashley Jackson, client relations officer for Central Bank and RACF board bember, knew exactly how our community could join in this national movement.

“The thought to do something with our community banks just came naturally” Jackson said. “I’ve been in the community banking world for almost 18 years now. I called up a couple of friends and colleagues at other local banks and everyone was immediately on board.”

Each bank offered a “dress down day” for a donation in which the bank would match those funds.

“All four banks went above and beyond with their match” Anaya said. “Their participation, enthusiasm and gratitude was felt as I met with staff at each bank location. It was truly a humbling experience.” 

Not only did the community banks get involved, but so did the Rochelle Township High School Interact Club.

“The students in Interact Club know the importance of rallying around something as important as #GivingTuesday,” Alison Vrana, RTHS English teacher and leader of the Interact Club, said. “They worked hard to encourage their friends and staff to give in support of the Rochelle Area Community Foundation.”

Community donors rounded out the day with extreme generosity which catapulted the final fundraising totals well over the $1,000 goal.

“To see the community come together to raise over $9,000 for funds here at RACF fills my heart and demonstrates how philanthropic Rochelle truly is,” Anaya said. “I am grateful to our donors and I know this event will grow each year as we continue to share all the good that RACF does for our nonprofit partners in the community.” 

If you would like to make an end of year gift, learn more about RACF or establish an endowment fund, please call Anaya at 815-561-3600 or send an email to director@rochellefoundation.org.