The Millie Moo Foundation Wins $20,000
Sterling, Illinois — The Millie Moo Foundation is honored to announce it has been selected as the first-place recipient of the 9th Annual Sterling Federal Bank Charity Challenge, earning the top award of $20,000 to further its mission of supporting pediatric cancer families and funding agricultural scholarships for youth.
The annual Charity Challenge, hosted by Sterling Federal Bank, is a community-driven initiative that empowers bank employees and the public to support local nonprofit organizations. Each year, a group of charities is nominated by employees of Sterling Federal Bank, and throughout the month-long campaign, votes are cast daily through a Facebook voting tool by community members. At the conclusion of the voting period, the organizations with the highest number of votes receive financial contributions from the bank.
2026 Charity Challenge Winners:
1st Place: The Millie Moo Foundation – $20,000
2nd Place: Village of Progress – $10,000
3rd Place: Victory Center – $5,000
In addition to the top three winners, all nominated charities received financial support as part of Sterling Federal Bank’s commitment to strengthening the communities it serves.
All Nominated Charities Receiving Funds:
The Millie Moo Foundation
Autism Foundation of the Sauk Valley
Brown Bag 4 U
Community Christmas for Children
Good Fellows
Lee County CASA
Mt. Morris Loaves and Fish Food Pantry
Path to the Future
Victory Center
Village of Progress
A Community-Driven Impact
“We are incredibly honored and humbled to receive this support,” said Wesley DeClercq, Millie’s father and founding member of The Millie Moo Foundation. “This recognition is not just a win for our organization—it is a win for every pediatric cancer family we serve. The outpouring of votes reflects the power of community and the belief that no family should face this journey alone.”
Founded in October 2025, The Millie Moo Foundation was created to provide direct financial assistance to pediatric cancer families, including support for mortgage or rent payments, utilities, groceries, and travel during treatment. Through its efforts, the Foundation has already assisted families within its local communities and continues to expand its reach, gaining recognition across the state of Illinois and throughout the Midwest for its growing impact. In addition, the Foundation is committed to investing in the future of agriculture through scholarship opportunities for youth pursuing careers in the industry.
Since its inception, the Foundation has already made a meaningful impact, assisting families across the country and continuing to expand its reach through community support and fundraising efforts.
About Sterling Federal Bank’s Charity Challenge
Sterling Federal Bank’s Charity Challenge has become a cornerstone of its community engagement efforts, donating thousands of dollars annually to local nonprofits. By combining employee involvement with public participation, the initiative fosters awareness and support for organizations making a difference in the region.
About The Millie Moo Foundation
The Millie Moo Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial relief to pediatric cancer families and supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders through scholarships. Rooted in compassion, community, and agricultural heritage, the Foundation continues to grow its impact nationwide.
