The Coles County Peace and Justice Fund, managed by Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation, aims to promote social justice, human rights, and cross-cultural understanding. Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation manages over 250 funds for the benefit of communities in southeastern Illinois. For more information, contact Kristen Bertrand, Program Officer, at 217.342.5413 or kristen@southeasternillinois.org. Photo submitted by SICF.
For Release
Coles County Peace and Justice Fund awards grants for 2025
MATTOON, Illinois – November 10, 2025: Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation has announced the recipients of the Coles County Peace and Justice Fund for 2025. The fund is established by Robert and Marilyn McClean of Mattoon, Illinois. The grants were awarded to The RealiTea ProjecT, Inc., the EIU Office of Belonging, Access & Engagement, Camp New Hope and HOPE of East Central Illinois.
The RealiTea ProjecT, Inc. received $4,000 for their “6th Annual Juneteenth Celebration.” This free public event aims to acknowledge African American history, celebrate liberation, and foster cross-cultural community relations. With support from partners like Faith Alliance for Racial Justice, Illinois Humanities, and Lake Land College, the grant will fund event logistics, vendor coordination, and programming. The mission focuses on discussing racial injustice and equity to stimulate positive community transformation through diverse cultural experiences and historical education.
EIU Office of Belonging, Access & Engagement received $3,500 for the 2nd Annual EIU Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast which will take place on January 19, 2026, at the Martin Luther King Jr. University Union Grand Ballroom. With the theme “Voices of Hope, Hands of Action,” the event will bring together EIU students, faculty, staff, local educators, faith leaders, and Coles County residents to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy. The program includes a high school essay scholarship competition, student panel discussion, musical tributes, and community service opportunities, aiming to foster social justice dialogue and promote community engagement.
HOPE of East Central Illinois received a $1,500 grant to assist the partnership with Standing Stone Community Center (SSCC) to develop a thrift store’s household goods section. The project aims to empower domestic violence survivors by providing job skills, volunteer opportunities, and access to essential household items. This unique collaboration between religious and non-religious organizations will serve the Coles County community.
Camp New Hope received a $1,000 grant that will focus on supporting summer camp activities for special needs individuals at Camp New Hope, a 41-acre facility near Lake Mattoon. The program aims to provide safe and enjoyable recreational experiences for participants aged 8 and older, with planned activities including field trips to the zoo, bowling, local events, boat and train rides, crafts, and music. The primary objectives are to create memorable experiences, facilitate social interaction, and offer unique outings that might be challenging for these individuals, while also supporting their caregivers.
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