The DeKalb County Community Foundation is excited to announce the first endowment Fund specifically supporting the Kirkland and Fairdale, IL, communities. The Kirkland-Fairdale Community Endowment Fund was created through tax-deductible contributions from friends, neighbors, and community members and supports projects and services dedicated to improving the quality of life there.

The Fund was created late in 2021 through a generous donation from Kirkland resident Don Banks, thanking the Community Foundation for their work and assistance with the Fairdale tornado recovery. The Foundation used the gift to create a Fund dedicated to the Kirkland and Fairdale communities. From there, Kirkland representatives Sally Bruch and Kris Aves led a series of fundraising efforts to increase the Fund size and recognize those who became charter donors with a $1,000 contribution to the Fund. An official Fund agreement signing event took place in Kirkland on May 12, 2022. Charter donors signed the agreement and commemorated the Fund at this event.

“As a Board member of the Community Foundation, I’ve seen first-hand the impact that a Fund like this can have on smaller communities in DeKalb County,” said Kris Aves. “Kirkland and Fairdale may be small in size, but together, we can do great things here that will leave a lasting impression for generations to come. I’m proud of the people here and the commitment I’ve seen to supporting public and nonprofit entities that have a direct benefit to Kirkland and Fairdale residents.”

Earlier this year, the Fund made its first grant to the Kirkland Recreation League. This $1,000 grant providing partial support for the ballpark fields repair and improvement project.

“We are honored to partner with Kirkland and Fairdale community members who have the vision to create a permanent charitable Fund that will give back and invest in their community for generations to come,” said Foundation Executive Director Dan Templin.

Contributions from the community are greatly encouraged to grow the Kirkland-Fairdale Community Endowment Fund. Donations can be made online or DeKalb County Community Foundation, 475 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178. For questions or additional information, please contact Executive Director Dan Templin at 815-748-5383 or dan@dekalbccf.org.