Our Team
Natalie Beck
Position: President
Phone: 217.429.3000
E-mail: nbeck@maconcountygives.org
“The Community Foundation of Macon County is blessed by the people who believe in the power of philanthropy and who devote their energy, time and resources for the benefit of others. Your generous spirit inspires us, and we are humbled by your continued support of the work we do.”
As president and CEO of The Community Foundation of Macon County, Natalie provides the vision and leadership for shaping the Foundation’s role as a civic leader, philanthropic partner and charitable giving vehicle. She brings together a rich background in philanthropy, nonprofit administration and public policy advocacy. Since taking the helm at CFMC, Natalie has championed efforts to increase local giving from CFMC donors and she believes in philanthropy’s unique ability to deliver “innovation capital” while leveraging partnerships. Under her leadership, the CFMC, which is among the eight largest Illinois community foundations for total giving and assets, has adopted a strategic focus on diversity, equity and inclusion.
She believes our communities are strongest when all people can fully participate in our region's abundant opportunities and has focused on ensuring all Macon County residents experience real inclusion and access to opportunities. Her vision launched the CFMC's adult scholarship program which grants $50,000 a semester to adult non-traditional students. In 2023, she completed the twelve-week 6-course Equitable Community Change certificate program at Cornell University. She is currently participating in the Council on Foundations Bridging Differences 2023 Cohort, an eight-month facilitated virtual learning experience with the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley.
Natalie is an Illinois native and graduate of the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign where she received her Bachelors in Journalism and Masters of Science. She earned her Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) through The American College of Financial Services. She is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) with 25 years of experience in not-for-profit management.
Locally, she serves on the boards of Decatur Memorial Hospital and The Ameren Energy Assistance Foundation. She lives in Decatur with her husband Matt, has three married daughters and 11 grandchildren. She will be volunteering with Ukrainian refugees for two weeks this May in Poland bringing Hope from the Heartland.
