The Bill and Susan Sherrard Foundation offers charitable grants with a mission to support a variety of causes that benefit the residents of Henry County, Illinois. With a special emphasis on educational assistance, historic preservation, religious initiatives aligned with the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, and nursing home care for the needy, the foundation aims to sustain community-oriented programs that reflect the values of its founders. Established in 2001 by William S. Sherrard, the foundation continues a legacy of quiet generosity that defined both Bill and Susan during their lives. Bill, a farmer and history enthusiast, and Susan, a teacher, made notable contributions to their community, including support for the Geneseo Historical Museum and the Henry County Fair Grounds.
Eligible applicants for the foundation’s grants must be tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Preference is given to organizations operating in or serving the residents of Henry County, Illinois. In keeping with the founders’ wishes, the foundation prioritizes funding for educational support for local students, projects that promote or preserve history, religious initiatives specifically connected to the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, and organizations that provide nursing home care to underserved populations.
Grants typically range between $5,000 and $40,000, with average annual giving around $200,000 across approximately 10 recipients per year. The foundation reviews applications once per year. To be considered, applicants must submit their materials by October 15. Proposals are reviewed during the foundation’s annual meeting in December. Notifications of funding decisions are generally issued by the following February.
Applications are submitted online through the foundation’s digital portal. Upon submission, applicants receive an automatic confirmation email. While specific proposal formats are not detailed, applicants should be prepared to provide a clear description of their charitable work, its alignment with the foundation’s priorities, and the impact of requested funds. Periodic progress updates or final project reports may be required for awarded grants to ensure accountability and transparency.
The foundation is administered by its trustee, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., which manages the submission process and communicates outcomes. By funding organizations that reflect the Sherrards' values of education, faith, history, and community care, the foundation helps ensure the continued well-being of Henry County’s residents.
Clearly align with foundation priorities (education, preservation, religion, care); show local impact
