As a community-focused financial organization, First Mid encourages volunteerism and giving back to local organizations and causes. In 2024, team members recorded over 22,000 volunteer hours, showcasing their dedication to making a positive impact.
Each year, First Mid recognizes its top five volunteers for their outstanding contributions. These individuals are given the opportunity to choose a local organization to receive a $500 donation from First Mid on their behalf. Let’s meet this year’s top volunteers and the causes they support:
Sarah Calhoun, Teller at the Carbondale Main banking center, chose DeSoto First Baptist Church Youth Group. This group aims to bring kids aged 12-18 together, providing them with a safe space to be themselves while enjoying fellowship and a weekly home-cooked meal. They also participate in a summer vacation bible school and a community fall fest on Halloween.
Amy Beals, Executive Assistant at Mattoon Corporate, chose Newton Community High School’s Theatre Department. This department provides a creative and inclusive space for students to explore their passion for the performing arts. Through collaboration and hard work, they produce high-quality productions that entertain and enrich their community. Their ultimate goal is to ignite a lifelong love of theater in their students.
Brittany McLaughlin, Commercial Loan Processing Manager at the Champaign W. Church banking center, chose American Legion Post 650 in Mansfield, IL. Their mission is to serve veterans, military families, and the communities where they are established. They provide vital programs and services that support veterans’ health, well-being, and recognition, while also giving back through youth programs, scholarships, and community outreach initiatives. Post 650 actively works to support these efforts, creating a positive impact for both veterans and the entire community.
Jen Bartels, Accounts Payable Officer at Mattoon Corporate, chose One Stop Community Christmas. This collaborative effort brings together various area organizations during the holiday season to provide hope and help for those in need in Coles, Clark, Cumberland, Douglas, Edgar, Moultrie, and Shelby counties.
J.P. Piper, Information Security Administrator at the Paris banking center, chose GAP (God Always Provides) food packing program. Facilitated through International Disaster Emergency Services (IDES), GAP allows people of all ages to pack nutritious meals for those suffering from hunger and malnutrition around the world. 100% of the disaster aid provided by IDES goes directly to local churches in affected areas.
Congratulations to our top volunteers! Thank you for your commitment to service. First Mid is honored to showcase the impact you have on your communities and proud to support your volunteer efforts. To read our other employee spotlights, click here.
