January 10, 2026
QUINCY — In honor of Samantha Otte, 29 local nonprofit organizations received grants to support programs that will positively influence the lives of hundreds of area youth through creative, leadership-focused, and humanitarian initiatives.
A total of $79,500 was awarded this year from the Samantha Otte Youth Opportunity Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois and Northeast Missouri. The grant presentation took place at the Quincy YMCA, a 2026 grant recipient. Founded in late 2000, the fund continues to carry forward Samantha’s legacy and reached a meaningful milestone this year, marking 25 years of grantmaking.