Heart of Illinois United Way has named the Mamer Family its 2026 McCord Philanthropists of the Year, recognizing their longstanding commitment to philanthropy, volunteer leadership, and service throughout central Illinois.
The award was presented to Matt and Heidi Mamer during the United Way’s Tocqueville Society Reception on September 22.
Each year, Heart of Illinois United Way recognizes Tocqueville Society members whose generosity, leadership, and service have made a lasting difference in our community. The award carries forward a legacy of local philanthropy that spans generations.
The Mamer family’s commitment to central Illinois is no exception. The late Jim Mamer was known for giving both his time and leadership to organizations and initiatives throughout the community. Matt Mamer has continued that tradition, including serving as Heart of Illinois United Way’s 2024 Campaign Chair and, with Heidi, chairing the United Way’s Pillars Society in 2022. His community involvement also includes leadership with the Peoria Riverfront Museum and Greater Peoria Economic Development Council.
Together, Matt and Heidi are longtime supporters of Heart of Illinois United Way, continuing their family’s tradition of investing in the community they call home.
The award itself also reflects a multigenerational tradition of giving. In 2018, when Katie McCord Jenkins and her husband, Tom, received the honor, Heart of Illinois United Way renamed it the McCord Philanthropists of the Year Award to recognize Katie’s parents, Mike and Kay McCord, and the McCord family’s legacy of philanthropy and community leadership.
The McCord Philanthropists of the Year Award is presented as part of Heart of Illinois United Way’s Leadership Giving program, which recognizes donors whose generosity provides significant support for the United Way’s work in education, financial stability and health throughout central Illinois.
