ROCHELLE — On Wednesday, May 14, representatives from the Rochelle Area Community Foundation accepted a $25,000 donation from Wheatland Tube of Rochelle. 

Wheatland Tube, a division of Zekelman Industries, has made a yearly donation to RACF for the past three years and upped its amount this year from $10,000 to $25,000. RACF supports dozens of causes in the Rochelle area through yearly grants. 

“They've been a generous supporter from the time they started here in Rochelle and they've always supported RACF,” RACF Executive Director Emily Anaya said. “We know that they are here to support this community and we'll look at how we can make the most impact with that. It's huge to see the support. We hope that businesses and industry choose to give through RACF. Partners like these make a huge impact. This is a huge number for us. It just really shows that they're a leader here and they're committed to this community and it thriving. I'm extremely humbled by their generosity.”

Zekelman Industries is the largest steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America and located in Rochelle four years ago. Zekelman Industries Electrical Division President Jim Hays said his company’s top priority is making sure it gives back to the communities that it’s part of. 

“It's the people here that work with us and for us that dedicate a good portion of their lives and this is a small way for us to give back to them and the area around us,” Hays said. “RACF does a wonderful job of redirecting funds and making sure it goes to the areas where it's most needed. We're very aligned with their dedication and commitment to supporting those parts of the community that need it most. It's about our long-term commitment to the community.”