Teutopolis native, and Agracel, Inc. Founder, Jack Schultz was honored by the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation at the Effingham Courthouse Museum Thursday night for his multiple philanthropic contributions to the community. The Outstanding Philanthropy Award was presented by its first recipient, and namesake, Rick Siemer. The award seeks to honor those who continually give back to the community. Schultz said it was honor to follow in the footsteps of award’s previous recipients.
Schultz, among many other accomplishments, was instrumental in establishing the C.E.O. Program, the Lake Sara Forever Fund, and was one of the founding board members of the Effingham County Community Foundation, now the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation. Schultz said that programs like C.E.O. help to instill the values of giving back in the next generation.
Schultz emphasized how easy it was to raise funds for worthy causes due the generosity of the community. When it comes to improving the community, he suggested to “be a big asker.”
The award ceremony also included presentations from other charitable organizations whose assets are managed by the Community Foundation including Krops4Kids, 100+ Women Who Care Effingham County, Midland States Bank and HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial Hospital Endowments for a Healthier Community, Harmony Playground, and the Ray, Mary, and Tim Niebrugge Farm Trust. The Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation manages $18 million in assets and has distributed over $2 million in grants and scholarships.