Best Higher Education Grants in Illinois

Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi 

The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi manages 314 donor-established funds and has disbursed over $48 million to support more than 1,000 charitable organizations and activities recommended by its donors, as well as charitable programs established by the foundation. Established in 2002 with a generous grant from the Maddox Foundation, the Community Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 charitable organization. The Foundation serves Bolivar, Coahoma, DeSoto, Leflore, Marshall, Panola, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tunica and Yalobusha counties. 

Tunica Woman’s Club Betty Jo Dulaney Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to a young woman residing in Tunica County who embodies the spirit of volunteerism and exemplifies the core values of the Tunica Woman’s Club—dedication to service, advocacy for women, children, and families, commitment to global change, and the empowerment of women.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Towers Family Fund

The Towers Family Fund was created to honor Karen Towers who was an art teacher for West Aurora School District #129 for 36 years. Karen passed away on December 17, 2016 at the age of 79. She was a passionate art teacher who believed that everyone could create art. Karen loved teaching and helping students find their creativity and artistic side. Karen loved to share her love and knowledge of cultures and creating with others. She believed that you could be an artist and a lawyer when you grow up, you don’t have to choose.

Karen was involved in her community of Aurora with the Aurora Historical Society as past President and board member and the Aurora Public Art Commission as a board member. Karen’s teaching accomplishments were varied; teaching in 6 decades (1959-2000), Kane County Educator of the Year nominee, Golden Apple for District #129 recipient, Y.W.C.A Woman of Distinction nominee, P.T.A. member and many more.

The Karen Towers Art Scholarship was created in her honor to help future art teachers reach their dreams.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

United Punjabis of America Excellence in Community Service Scholarship Fund

This scholarship in the amount of $1,000 will be awarded annually to two eligible applicants. This scholarship is a one-year award and is non-renewable.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Erwin & Ella Hoffman Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships for students with a preference for graduates of East Aurora or West Aurora High School and attendance at a Lutheran-affiliated college or university. The fund was established by a bequest received from the estate of Mrs. Hoffman, who died in 1979, a year after her husband’s death. The couple owned and operated a farm in North Aurora for most of their lives.

They were members of Our Savior Lutheran Church in Aurora.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Dorothy K. Witte Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund

This Fund honors the memory of Dorothy K. Witte (1912-2008) who taught in East Aurora School District elementary schools for the bulk of her career. She had previously taught briefly in several Lutheran schools prior to having her three children, Elizabeth, Jonathan, and Robert who all graduated from East Aurora High School. After her husband Paul’s death at age 46, she began teaching in the East Aurora School District 131, at Brady Elementary, to support her young family. Her career in education became her life’s passion which spanned 25 years (1958-1982).

Dorothy’s dedication to helping students who had behavioral and learning difficulties led her to be the “go to” teacher for working with students with educational challenges. Often her students were the only English speakers in their home, so she took Spanish lessons to be able to communicate more effectively with the parents of her students. She occasionally made home visits when families felt uncomfortable attending school conferences. Her dining room table at home was often cluttered with lesson plans, teaching supplies, and papers to grade. She was known to stay in her classroom until well after dark working to prepare for class the next day.

Her daughter Beth (1940-2011) followed her mother into a career in teaching/education. Her sons Jon and Bob initially studied to be teachers, but eventually went into the medical field as physicians. They now establish this scholarship to honor their mother and the teaching profession which has been a consistent thread through their family. The funds awarded are intended for a recipient who seeks to pursue a career as a public school educator, helping those who most need the expertise of a skilled and caring teacher.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

George & Cora Webster Scholarship Endowment Fund

The George and Cora Webster Scholarship Endowment Fund provides scholarships to African American students who are graduates of high schools located within the Community Foundation service area.

George Webster is a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Westinghouse High School in Pittsburgh and attended Pennsylvania State University. In 1963, Mr. Webster enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he attained the rank of Staff Sergeant. His service included sixteen months in Vietnam. After serving ten years in the Marine Corp, he joined the United States Navy. From 1979 until 1982, he was a Navy recruiter in Aurora. He served on five different aircraft carriers, and eventually achieved the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer. Upon his retirement from the service in 1988, he and his wife Cora Webster moved back to the Aurora Community. George was also an Aurora Election Commission Judge for twenty-one years and a member of the Aurora Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association for many years.

Cora Webster was born in Eudora, Arkansas. She worked as a licensed cosmetologist in Texas and was employed by both the May Company and the KMART Corporation in Illinois. Cora (1939-2022) was a member of the Main Street Baptist Church and served as a member of the Nurse’s Aide Ministry.

Mr. and Mrs. Webster were married in December 1969 at Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Chicago. They have one son, one granddaughter, two grandsons, and two great-grandsons.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Richard James & William Alfred Wulff Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund was established by William Alfred “Bill” Wulff (1943-2021) in honor of his twin brother, Richard James “Dick” Wulff. Scholarships will be awarded to students pursuing a career in the medical field, such as nursing. At the age of 19, Dick passed away following complications from heart surgery; he had recently graduated from Marmion Academy and was attending Parsons School of Design. Bill was a cancer survivor, as is his sister; their mother also had cancer and their father underwent heart surgery. Along with honoring Dick’s memory, this fund is intended to honor and encourage the nursing profession that made such an impact on the Wulff family.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Robert H. & Shirley N. Waldo Scholarship Endowment Fund

Robert and Shirley Waldo bequeathed a portion of their estate to provide scholarships for local students.

Shirley Waldo (1923-2002) was a graduate of West Aurora High School. She received a teaching degree from DeKalb Teachers College and a master’s degree from Northwestern University.

She was an educator in the East Aurora School System for twelve years. In addition, Mrs. Waldo was a past president of the Copley Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, director of the Women’s Chicago District Golf Association and member of Our Savior Lutheran Church.

Her husband Robert Waldo (1911-2007) was born in Sycamore.

His family moved to Aurora the following year when his father K.D. Waldo was appointed principal of East Aurora High School. K.D. Waldo was later named superintendent of the East Aurora Schools.

Robert Waldo studied at North Central College and the University of Illinois. He was a proprietor of Healy Chapel and later of Daleiden Mortuary.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Swami Vivekananda Scholarship Fund

This fund was created by the City of Aurora’s Indian American Community Outreach Advisory Board (IACOAB).

IACOAB’s mission is to embrace, preserve and promote the heritage and contributions of Indian American’s while promoting civic engagement and encouraging Indian Americans to increase their involvement in Aurora’s growth.

The IACOAB created the Swami Vivekananda Scholarship Fund to support college-bound high school seniors to further their education in a field of their choice. Applicants must have demonstrated exemplary community service. 

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Willett & Peffers Families Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund was established by Martha Willett Peffers to provide scholarships for students entering the field of music.

Mrs. Peffers (1911-2004) was a graduate of West Aurora High School. She received a degree in philosophy from the University of Illinois and a teaching certificate from Aurora College. She also attended the Art Institute of Chicago.

A lifelong Auroran, Mrs. Peffers was a member of the Tuesday Garden Club, the West Side Reading Circle and Chapter BT of P.E.O.

Her husband Hopkins Stolp Peffers (1905-1995) attended Culver Military Academy in Indiana where he later taught. He also attended the University of Wisconsin.

Mr. Peffers was a manager and consultant in the field of public transportation for many years.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

William “Skip” Rowe Scholarship Fund

William “Skip” Rowe was a father and husband who spent his entire life taking care of his family, friends and the many young people in the community. Skip was able to make friends with people from all backgrounds, and he was known to be a father-figure and mentor to many young men that just needed a trusted adult to help keep them on the right path. This fund was created to honor his memory and will help to provide support to a male student going into the field of education. This scholarship was made possible by the many friends and family that loved Skip and continue to benefit from his endless generosity, passion and love.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships are available to local students who will attend an accredited post-secondary institution within the United States of America on a full-time basis.

Winteringham Family Permanent Endowment Fund

The Winteringham Family Permanent Endowment Fund was established through a generous bequest received from the estate of Marian Winteringham

Marian (1901-1994) taught in the West Aurora School System for over forty years. For the first half of her career, she taught at Abraham Lincoln and Nancy Hill Elementary Schools. In the early 1940s, she joined the faculty of West Aurora High School, where she taught English and also served as Dean of Women for many years.

This fund was created by Marian as a memorial to her parents Arthur J. and Minnie Winteringham, her sister Claire Winteringham, and her brother and sister-in-law Sidney and Frederika Winteringham. Although her bequest was unrestricted, Marian requested that at least a portion of her gift be used to provide scholarships for students entering the field of teaching. 

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Rotary Club of Aurora Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Rotary Club of Aurora established this scholarship fund to support local graduating high school seniors who will be attending a two-year or four-year college or university. Preference will be given to students studying healthcare or education.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Roosevelt-Aurora American Legion Post 84 Scholarship Fund

The Roosevelt-Aurora American Legion Post 84 Scholarship Fund was created to provide scholarships to Aurora veterans and their family members.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Robert J. & Mary Jayne Pooley Endowment Fund

The Robert J. and Mary Jayne Pooley Endowment Fund was created by the couple’s family and friends at the time of Mary Jayne’s passing. The fund provides scholarships to students entering the field of nursing. Robert J. Pooley, Sr. (1928-2016) was a lifelong resident of Aurora. He attended St. Mary Grade School and East Aurora High School. He was a graduate of Iowa State University where he received a degree in general engineering. After college, Mr. Pooley returned to Aurora and joined his father to form Leon B. Pooley and Son Builders (later Robert J. Pooley, Inc.), a company that constructed single family homes in the Aurora area for thirty years. He also was a member of the Illinois Realtors Association. Mary Jayne Pooley (1936-2011) was born in Hannibal, Missouri. At the age of nine, her family moved to Aurora. She was a graduate of Madonna High School and St. Joseph School of Nursing, both in Aurora. She reentered the workforce in 1982 as a nurse and addictions counselor. Before her retirement in 2007, she worked for twenty-two years at the Community Counseling Center in Aurora. In 1957, Mr. and Mrs. Pooley were married at Holy Angels Church. They made their home in Aurora, raising six children.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Robert G. Schweitzer Scholarship Endowment Fund

This endowment, created to administer a bequest from Robert Schweitzer’s estate, provides scholarships to students who are majoring in a science-related field of study. Mr. Schweitzer (1918-1989) graduated from the Armour Institute of Technology of Chicago in 1940 with a degree in chemical engineering. He was employed at the National Can Company in Chicago for many years and was a resident of Oswego.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Richard H. Rokop, Sr. Memorial Scholarship Fund

The Richard H. Rokop, Sr. Memorial Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to residents of the City of Aurora, the Village of North Aurora and Aurora Township who are enrolled at the undergraduate level of study at a college or university. Richard Rokop (1941-2006) was born in Aurora, Illinois. After graduation from East Aurora High School, he began a thirty-year career at Northern Illinois Gas Company. Mr. Rokop was a member of Holy Angels Catholic Church, the Lions Club and the Phoenix Club. He served as a Kane County Republican Treasurer and was a member of the Fox Metro Water Reclamation District Board of Trustees. In honor of his longtime commitment to coaching, Mr. Rokop was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. His wife, Jeanne Rokop, passed away in 2008. He was survived by three sons – Richard, Jr., Michael and Daniel.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Richard and Susan Schindel Undergraduate Education Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Richard and Susan Schindel Undergraduate Education Scholarship Endowment Fund was created to provide undergraduate scholarships for a graduating high school senior of Aurora Central Catholic High School, Aurora Christian High School, East Aurora High School, or West Aurora High School. Students must be attending an accredited institution of higher education in the United States of America. The type of school may be a two-year college or a four-year college or university to pursue a teaching certification in middle or secondary education.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Random Acts Matter Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Random Acts Matter Scholarship Fund is to recognize one exceptional graduating senior from each of the St. Charles high schools (St. Charles North and St. Charles East) who are committed to making their community a better and kinder place to live through random acts of kindness and support. Random Acts Matter was founded on the idea that the power of care, compassion and kindness can change our community and the world.  The scholarship was created to recognize high school students who see the world through the lens of kindness and then ACT in big ways and small.  We feel that when students model this behavior it creates a ripple of kindness which impacts their families, other students, faculty, and the entire community. Random Acts Matter (RAM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to sharing care and compassion in our community.  We accept nominations for individual acts of kindness and participate in ongoing community outreach. Our mission is to inspire and connect people within the community, create awareness and advocate for our neighbors in need of care and compassion and create a community inspired to provide random acts of kindness and support.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Orville Peterson Health Care Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to residents of the area served by Copley Memorial Hospital in Aurora to further their post graduate education in medicine, health administration or dentistry. The scholarship was established at the time of Orville Peterson’s retirement in 1976. Mr. Peterson (1910-1984) was president of Copley Memorial Hospital from 1946 until 1976.  During that time, the hospital undertook three major building projects. Mr. Peterson also guided the remodeling of the Pediatric Department and the renovation of the 1888 building which later became the Kidney Dialysis Center. He often recalled and was deeply touched by the extraordinary commitment of the hospital’s physical therapy staff during the polio epidemic. “The staff just never left during that time.” Mr. Peterson passed away in 1984 in Long Beach, California. In the 1990’s, Copley Memorial Hospital (renamed Rush-Copley Medical Center) moved from its original location on Lincoln Avenue in Aurora to Ogden Avenue in Aurora.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Marvin F. & Geraldine E. Pilmer Scholarship Endowment Fund

The family of Marvin and Geraldine Pilmer created a scholarship fund shortly after the passing of Mr. Pilmer. In 2016, this scholarship fund became an endowment. Scholarships are reserved for students graduating from Waubonsee Community College. Marvin Pilmer (1929-1996) was a graduate of West Aurora High School. He attended Aurora University and graduated from the Realtor’s Institute. Mr. Pilmer founded Pilmer Real Estate, Inc. in 1971. At the time of his death, he was chief executive officer of the company. He had served as president of the Greater Aurora Association of Realtors, chairman of Our Savior Lutheran Church and chairman of the Greater Aurora Chamber of Commerce. He also had been a director of the Aurora Country Club, Copley Memorial Healthcare Foundation and Plum Landing. Geraldine Pilmer (1933-2015) was co-founder of Pilmer Real Estate.  In addition to raising five children, Mrs. Pilmer volunteered for several community organizations including Our Savior Lutheran Church.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Lydia B. Raymond Scholarship Endowment Fund

A bequest from the estate of Lydia B. Raymond was received in 1980 to provide scholarships for public high school graduates in Aurora. In 2002, the Foundation reestablished the fund as an endowment to ensure ongoing recognition of her generosity. Lydia Raymond (1893-1979) lived most of her life in Aurora and attended the West Aurora Public Schools. She was a graduate of the University of Chicago and received certificates from the University of Paris, the Sorbonne and the University of Mexico. She taught language, social studies and French at West Aurora High School from 1918 until her retirement in 1958. Upon her retirement, she received a tribute from her students in the West Aurora EOS Yearbook. “This tribute is the voice of all students who under her tutelage learned from her much more than academic information. Raymond possessed that great quality of all truly dedicated teachers who inspire students to extend themselves, to persevere and to expand.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

John & Julia Onete Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund was established with a gift from the estate of Jacqueline Onete. It provides scholarships for young women who have graduated from Aurora high schools and/or Waubonsee Community College, and who are pursuing a degree in the arts. The fund is named for Jacqueline’s parents, John and Julia Onete.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Gary A. & Mary Ruth Roberts Endowment Fund

The Gary A. & Mary Ruth Roberts Endowment Fund was created by Gary and Mary Ruth Roberts to foster educational opportunities for elementary, high school and college level individuals, as well as provide grants to local non-profit organizations. Gary and Mary Ruth Roberts are lifelong residents of the Aurora area. Mr. Roberts was born in Marion, Illinois. His family moved to Aurora when he was three years old. Upon graduation from East Aurora High School, he entered the military.  In 1946 and 1947, Mr. Roberts served as a Lieutenant in the 1st Cavalry Division in Japan. He was employed by the Freeman United Coal Mining Company for thirty-nine years.  He retired in 1987 having achieved the position of Vice-President of Sales. Mary Ruth Roberts (1928-2022) was a graduate of West Aurora High School. She continued her studies at the St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing in Evanston, Illinois.  She graduated from St. Francis and later from Loyola University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing. As a long-time cancer survivor, Mrs. Roberts was active with the American Cancer Society where she volunteered for thirty-five years as director of the Reach to Recovery Program.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Edward & Genevieve Jungels Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Edward and Genevieve Jungels Scholarship Fund was established to provide scholarships to students pursuing studies within the field of veterinary medicine. Edward Jungels (1929-2012) was born and raised in Aurora.  He attended Sacred Heart Grade School, St. Nicholas School, and is a graduate of East Aurora High School. For twenty-nine years, he worked at AllSteel in the tool room and was a member of the AllSteel Quarter Century Club. Genevieve Jungels (1926-2016) was also born and raised in Aurora.  She attended Nicholson Elementary School and West Aurora High School. She was employed by Pictorial Package in Aurora for ten years as a proof-reader.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Dr. J. William & Arline Hoban Family Fund

he Dr. J. William and Arline Hoban Family Fund was established to assist local students who are furthering their education at a college, university, vocational, or trade school. Dr. Hoban (1920-2003) received his master’s degree from the University of Detroit and his doctorate from Wayne State University. He and his wife Arline moved to Aurora in 1968, at which time he became Dean of the Evening School and Summer School at the newly organized Waubonsee Community College.  He retired from the college in 1989. Arline Hoban (1925-2022) was a graduate of the University of Detroit. She was an educator at West Aurora High School and later began a career at MetLife. Mrs. Hoban retired in 1990.  She was a member of Holy Angels Church and the American Association of University Women. Dr. and Mrs. Hoban had six children. The scholarship fund created by the Hoban Family reflects their dedication to higher education.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a public charitable foundation based in Aurora, Illinois, dedicated to improving quality of life across the Fox River Valley, including the Greater Aurora area and Kane and Kendall counties. The Foundation partners with donors to fulfill philanthropic goals by managing charitable funds and distributing grants and scholarships that address local needs in areas such as education, health and human services, arts and culture, and community development, while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources to create lasting community impact.

Constance K. & Allen J. Kent Scholarship Endowment Fund

The Constance K. & Allen J. Kent Scholarship Endowment Fund was established to provide scholarships for students graduating from public or private high schools within the boundaries of Aurora School District 129 or 131 and also Marmion Academy. Constance Kent, a native Auroran, graduated from Madonna High School and received a bachelor of arts degree from DePaul University in Chicago. She enjoyed a career in marketing and journalism. She also held an Illinois Real Estate License. Mrs. Kent has served on the boards of area organizations including Family Counseling Service, American Association of University Women and YWCA Aurora. In addition, she has been a volunteer at the Dominican Literacy Center. Allen Kent, a native of Jefferson, South Dakota, is a graduate of the College of Pharmacy at South Dakota State University. He was on the pharmacy staff of Provena Mercy Center for many years and retired as director of pharmacy. Mr. Kent also holds a master of science degree in business from Aurora University. He has served on many professional boards, including the Pharmacy Practitioner Panel of The United States Pharmacopeia. He also has volunteered for several community boards including Kiwanis Club of Aurora, Dominican Literacy Center, Provena Fox Knoll, Aurora Public Arts Commission and the Prestbury Citizens Association.