Our Team
Natalie Beck
Position: President
Phone: 217.429.3000
E-mail: nbeck@heartofillinois.org
“The Heart of Illinois Community Foundation 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 Heart of Illinois Community Foundation, 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 HICF, Natalie has championed efforts to increase local giving from HICF donors and she believes in philanthropy’s unique ability to deliver “innovation capital” while leveraging partnerships. Under her leadership, the HICF, which is among the six 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 the residents we serve experience real inclusion and access to opportunities. Her vision launched the HICF'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 was a participant in the Council on Foundations Bridging Differences 2023 Cohort. Natalie is a former board member of the Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations and Forefront, a statewide association representing both grant makers and nonprofits.
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.
