Nicor Gas awards 22 nonprofits community and culture grants

NAPERVILLE, Ill. – Feb. 10, 2026 – Nicor Gas is announcing $100,000 in grants to support cultural and community organizations throughout its service territory. These grants will foster engagement in the arts and promote access to resources and opportunities for all to thrive and reach their full potential.

“At Nicor Gas, we believe strong communities are built through connection and shared experiences. Our community and culture grants allow us to support local arts organizations, museums and cultural enrichment programs, helping ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the vibrant spirit of Northern Illinois,” said Jackie Nagel, manager of Community Engagement at Nicor Gas.

This year, Nicor Gas is awarding 22 organizations with grants up to $5,000 to support their community and culture programming including:  

Chicago Metro:

National Museum for Mexican Art – Supports programs and exhibits that foster knowledge and appreciation of Mexican art and culture including collections, education programs and professional development.

Cook County:

Arts of Life - Supports artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities through an arts enrichment program including ceramics, off-site engagements and specialty workshops.

Artsie, Inc. - Supports an interactive arts education project, engaging the community in hands-on creative participation in public art.

Flossmoor Art Council - Supports an art entrepreneurship program, including training in marketing, financial literacy and arts therapy.

Lights Camera Discover - Supports a program that provides hands-on experience in digital media, animation, film production and photography.

Maywood Fine Arts Association - Supports programs and services that provide affordable, high-quality arts education to children in the Maywood area.

Oak Park Festival Theatre - Supports a "Pay What You Will" program for the 2025 production, engaging new audiences in the arts.

Oil Lamp Theater - Provides an arts education program, giving youth and seniors a process-driven theatrical education.

Sanskriti - Supports a space for cultural preservation of Indian heritage, intergenerational connection, and community unity through live music and dance performances.

South Holland Master Chorale - Supports free public performances in the South Suburban Chicago area, integrating instrumentalists.

Tender Touch, Inc. - Supports a program for adults and teens in their journey to recovery and reintegration through the production of a play.

DuPage County:

DuPage Foundation - Supports a breakfast which brings together civic leaders, area businesses, volunteers and community members of all backgrounds.

Naperville Neighbors United - Supports a variety of culturally relevant programming including guest speakers, teen-led initiatives, educational workshops and events.

Naperville Youth Club - Supports programs and services that address the widening academic and achievement gap for at-risk students.

Kane County:

One Mind Inc. - Supports a youth leadership and cultural engagement program including public speaking, arts education and community service.

Side Street Studio Arts - Supports a no-cost arts education program for youth including drawing, painting, dance, music and theatre classes.

McHenry County:

Raue Center for the Arts - Supports artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities through an arts enrichment program including ceramics, off-site engagements, and specialty workshops.

McLean County:

Children's Discovery Museum - Supports an access initiative that offers reduced price admission to low-income families, allowing all children the opportunity to learn through the exhibits at the museum.

Northern Illinois:

Youth Outlook - Supports programs and services for youth, including drop-in center programs, parent and caregiver programs and community education.

Stephenson County:

Freeport Art Museum - Supports a collaborative partnership integrating high-quality, hands-on art activities into established after-school programs.

Will County:

The Friends of the Joliet Public Library - Supports a community program and exhibit that celebrates Black History Month.

Winnebago County:

The LIAM Foundation - Supports arts and community events throughout the Rockford metro area.

To learn more about Nicor Gas’ commitment to community and culture 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