Published on July 7, 2026

The Rotary Club of Mattoon recently made a $500 donation to the Lake Land College Foundation in support of the College’s Opportunity Fund, providing students in need with crucial funding.

The donation was made in recognition of Juneteenth, with the Rotary Club serving as an event sponsor for Lake Land’s annual Juneteenth celebration. During the event, guests had the option to complete a walk for freedom across campus, with the Rotary Club donating $10 for every participant. The 2026 Juneteenth event marked the second consecutive year that the Rotary Club has sponsored the campus walk for freedom.

“Mattoon Rotary is grateful for our relationship with Lake Land College and the opportunity to be a sponsor for the College’s Juneteenth celebration walk for freedom,” said Tina Stovall, Chair of the Mattoon Rotary Peacebuilder Committee. “We enjoy spending time on campus during the walk, talking with participants as they visit Podesta Park and sharing information about the two peace poles installed there through or partnership with the College. We are so pleased that our donations to the Opportunity Fund can help students continue their journeys to success.”

“We are continuously grateful to the Rotary Club of Mattoon for its ongoing support of our students’ academic, professional and personal growth,” said Coordinator for Student Development Mercury Bowen. “The funds from this donation will be instrumental in ensuring each of our students has the opportunity to thrive on their journey toward success.”

The Lake Land College Opportunity Fund provides support funding to students facing unexpected financial obstacles. As such, the fund is a valuable resource to help students mitigate financial barriers and continue their education.

To learn more about the Rotary Club of Mattoon, visit the club website at mattoonrotary.org.

For more information about the Lake Land College Opportunity Fund or to apply for assistance from the fund, contact Bowen at 217-234-5244 or mbowen@LakeLandCollege.edu.