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Ahmad Akim and Malik Hart Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund

Established 1998

Scheketa Hart-Burns & Ahmad Akim Hart
Scheketa Hart-Burns & Ahmad Akim Hart

Ahmad Akim Hart (1981-1998) was born in Aurora, Illinois. He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and his doctors predicted a life expectancy of two years.

His mother, Aurora Alderman Scheketa Hart-Burns, dedicated her life to caring for her son at home. Through her love and devotion, Ahmad learned how to communicate with a computer and cue cards.

Ahmad attended Keeler, Goodwin and Hope Wall Schools.  At the time of his passing at the age of seventeen, his family and friends created a scholarship fund to honor his life.

The fund, which was created in 1998, became an endowment in 2008.

Malik Hart (1973-2022)

The fund also memorializes Ahmad Akim’s brother Malik. Malik Hart (1973-2022) lived a fulfilled life of sharing his gifts with the world. He had been all over the world singing, writing and producing music and plays, acting in plays, supporting cast in plays. His talents helped him to sing with some of gospels top artist and house music. His House Music albums are still selling all over the world and available on streaming platforms.

Thank you very much for supporting my college education for these four years. I will never be able to repay you for the opportunity that this scholarship has given to me.

Julia H.

[Renewing Scholarship Recipient] Graduate of Hinkley-Big Rock High School

There’s no question in my mind that the scholarship I received opened up possibilities.

Marianne Renner

Past Scholarship Recipient & Current Leadership Coach

As a first-generation college student from a low-income family, I was worried about how I was going to pay for books and supplies. This scholarship will allow me to focus more on my studies instead of worrying about how to afford college. I am working to not only create opportunities for myself but to motivate future generations. Thank you so much for helping me along this journey!

Moises J.

Claude & Alice Allen Memorial Scholarship Recipient

We chose the Community Foundation because of its reputation. It’s well known, established and we can trust them to do the job for us.

Dick Schindel

Richard and Susan Schindel Scholarship Funds

A community foundation is a donor-driven organization that helps donors custom-design funds that reflect their charitable interests. Through the years, grants from these funds have made a significant impact on our local communities.

Sharon Stredde

President Emeritus

…you can always start small, even $25 can make a difference. Remember we can’t take our money with us. Even if it’s just your gift of time. Volunteer and get involved.

Cris Anderson

Cristina & Thomas S. Anderson Endowment Fund | Tom & Cris Anderson Colonial Advisory Fund

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