2026 Matching Program Generates $18,920 for Community Hope Center

The Helmkamp Cares Foundation, in partnership with the Gateway Grizzlies and a coalition of valued industry trade partners, is proud to announce the successful completion of its 2026 matching program, resulting in an $18,920 donation to the Community Hope Center (CHC) in Cottage Hills, Illinois.

The annual matching program, now in its second year, was designed to amplify the impact of local philanthropy by rallying support from Helmkamp’s network and the broader construction industry. This year, the program began with a special “Swing for a Cause” event at Arsenal BG Ballpark, home of the Gateway Grizzlies. Inning sponsorships, raffle basket sales, and direct contributions at the July 30 game helped raise the first $6,420 toward the campaign goal.

Helmkamp’s industry partners joined together to help build momentum and maximize the program’s impact. Companies participating in or supporting the effort included Air-Therm, Bommarito Construction, Creative Planning, Epic Systems, Friend Acoustical Ceiling, Graycor Construction, Haberberger Mechanical, Hayden Wrecking, JF Electric, Loellke Plumbing, Logo It, Lowry Electric, Maher & Co., SCI Engineering, TJ Wies Contracting Co., and Wieland.

“We are grateful for the generosity and partnership of our industry friends and the Gateway Grizzlies in making this year’s program a home run for our community,” said Kyle Ogden, president of Helmkamp Construction Co. “The Community Hope Center provides vital support to families and individuals experiencing hardship, and we are proud to stand with them in building hope.”

For 38 years, the Community Hope Center has served as a lifeline for people in difficult circumstances by providing food, clothing, community navigation services, and assistance with other basic needs. The organization helps families and individuals during their hardest moments, providing a path back to stability.

CHC’s Executive Director, Ann Crane, said, “On behalf of Community Hope Center, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Helmkamp Construction, the Gateway Grizzlies, and their employees and partners for their incredible generosity and support of our mission.

“We simply could not do this work without caring community partners who believe in helping their neighbors. We are truly grateful to live and serve in a community filled with such kindness, compassion, and generosity that helps us bring hope to those who need it most.”

The Community Hope Center is currently focused on facility upgrades that will allow the food pantry to remain open in all weather conditions, as well as improvements to enhance safety for everyone who visits seeking assistance.