SYCAMORE – The DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, a program established in 2012 through the DeKalb County Community Foundation, raised over $1.5 million during their annual Give DeKalb County event, according to a May 21 press release. 

The money collected aims to benefit the nonprofit organizations in DeKalb County and help support their individual missions, said Ben Bingle, director of DCNP. This year there were 130 participating nonprofits and funds, he said. 

On May 6, 3,240 people gave 8,363 donations to fund nonprofits through this event, according to the release. 

This has been the largest event in the program so far. In 2020 the program raised $1.2 million, according to the Give DeKalb website. 

“(This year) was really exciting and humbling and inspiring,” Bingle said. “It is truly incredible to see that outpouring of support.”

Donors donated by mail between April 22 and May 6, and online from midnight to midnight on May 6 at GiveDeKalbCounty.org, according to the release. The program received donations from 44 states and four countries. Online, $688,245 was collected and $688,381 was received by mail, according to the release.  

The bonus pool also raised $168,987 through contributions from donors and community Partners, according to the release. A bonus pool is separate funding, raised to ensure every donation goes further. “It’s our version of a match,” Bingle said. So, when donors donate, it’s “boosted” by DCNP from a percentage of their bonus pool, he said. 

“(Give DeKalb County) is a testament to the community pride within DeKalb County— the generous spirit of those who work and live locally,” Bingle said. “It’s a great way for us to shine a light on the local nonprofits and the good work that they do throughout DeKalb County.”

Correction: This report has been edited to correct several errors. The DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership is a program of the DeKalb County Community Foundation. It’s not a standalone foundation. The Give DeKalb County event raises dollars for local nonprofits. The event benefited 130 nonprofits and funds. This year’s event was the largest Give DeKalb event to date. Donations by mail totalled $688,381. The Bonus Pool, which is not referred to as the DCNP Bonus Pool, raised $168,987 through contributions from donors and community partners.