Nicor Gas awards 21 nonprofits family and social services grants

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – Nov. 4, 2025 – Nicor Gas is awarding $100,000 in grants to 21 nonprofit organizations to support social services programs across the company’s service territory. Nonprofit organizations are eligible to receive up to $5,000 through Nicor Gas’ pillar grant program.

"With these grants, our goal is to empower organizations that are creating real, positive impacts in the lives of individuals and families,” said Jackie Nagel, manager of Community Engagement at Nicor Gas. “We recognize the vital role these organizations play in fostering community development and addressing critical needs. We are proud to partner with these organizations to help build a foundation for long-term growth and resilience, so together, we can create sustainable change and enhance the quality of life for those we serve."  

Nicor Gas awards the following 21 organizations with grants to support initiatives that support families, improve quality of life, foster resilience and enhance social welfare.

Chicago Metro/Statewide:

• Elyssa’s Mission: Supports suicide prevention programs to identify warning signs, reduce stigma and provide mental health resources.
• Hephzibah Children's Association: Supports a therapeutic care program for children in foster care.
• Hope for the Day: Supports school-based suicide prevention and mental health programs for young adults.

Cook County:

• Anew: Supports wrap around services for survivors of domestic violence, including a hotline, shelter and counseling.
• Aspire: Supports workforce development services for individuals with disabilities.
• Cancer Wellness Center: Provides supportive services for children and families facing cancer including counseling, support groups and workshops.
• CJE Senior Life: Supports a benefits services program that helps seniors access benefits and social service assistance.
• Cornerstone Community Development Corporation: Supports services including senior programs, workforce development and community outreach.
• Gigi’s Playhouse - Hoffman Estates:Supports education for families of newborns with Down syndrome, including family support groups and education programs.
• Maryville Academy: Supports a safe haven care program for infants and young children during a family crisis.
• Metropolitan Family Services: Supports resource center operations, including re-entry programs, employment training and youth development and childcare services.

DuPage County:

• Kids Above All: Supports mental health and counseling services using a sliding scale fee structure to remove barriers to treatment.
• Little Friends, Inc.: Supports an after-school respite program for children with developmental disabilities.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) DuPage County: Supports community education and a one-to-one peer counseling program for individuals and families affected by mental illness.
• Turning Pointe Autism Foundation: Supports an adult services program including employment training programs, alumni groups and life skills training programs.

Kendall County:

• Oswego Seniors, Inc.: Supports programs and services for seniors, including health screenings, fitness classes and social activities.

Lake County:

• CASA of Lake County: Supports training community volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates for children who have experienced abuse.

McHenry County:

• The Rosecrance Foundation: Provides comprehensive mental health services and substance abuse treatment programs, providing accessible and affordable care for all.
• Veteran’s Path to Hope: Provides an all-inclusive resource center for veterans, including a food pantry, counseling and peer support groups.

McLean County:

• The Baby Fold: Provides safe, stable homes for children who have been removed from unsafe home environments, focusing on children with intensive medical, behavioral or emotional needs.

Will County:

• GiGi’s Playhouse - Tinley Park: Supports therapeutic and educational programs including speech therapy, literacy and motor skills for children with Down’s syndrome.

To learn more about Nicor Gas’ commitment to cultural and community enrichment initiatives, visit www.NicorGas.com/CharitableGiving.

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About Nicor Gas
Nicor Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies of Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), and serves 2.3 million customers in more than 650 communities across northern Illinois. Ranked as a Most Trusted Utility Brand by Escalent, Nicor Gas is fueling customer choice, innovation, economic growth and a sustainable energy future. Nicor Gas is working to keep bills as low as possible as we continue providing access to clean, safe and reliable natural gas. For more information, visit nicorgas.com.

Media Contact:
Nicole Frett
nfrett@southernco.com