March 10, 2025
IKM Manning FFA Greenhouse

Pictured left to right: (far left - The Maschhoffs Production Manager Kevin Rohe, far right - The Maschhoffs Production Manager Andrew Eischeid, Production Manager Aron Nieland with IKM Manning Officer Team

The Maschhoffs Impact is excited to celebrate the progress made during its first quarter, reflecting our commitment to the communities where we live, work, and do business. At its inaugural meeting on December 11th, the initiative's Board approved nearly $60,000 in community investments to support vital local projects.

“We are thrilled with the enthusiastic response and quality of applications received in this first quarter,” said Paul Josias, Co-chair of The Maschhoffs Impact Board. “These investments will drive lasting, positive change in our local communities, and we’re excited to watch these projects take shape.”

Below is a summary of the supported initiatives, aligned with our core focus areas:

Community Infrastructure: Strengthening essential services and facilities that support community well-being.

  • Gladbrook Fire and Rescue: Upgrading a 25-year-old rescue truck and repurpose the existing unit into a brush truck.
  • Gothenburg Volunteer Fire Department: Replacing aging monitors on rescue units to improve emergency response efficiency.
  • Washington County Ambulance: Investing in data technology to enhance safety and provide real-time information for emergency crews.
  • South Macon Fire Department: Supporting fundraising to maintain equipment, improve facilities, and fund firefighter training.
  • Special Olympics Illinois: Sponsoring the regional basketball competition, covering facility rental, food, awards, equipment, and volunteer shirts.
  • Odin Public Schools #722: Providing non-perishable food items for student weekend snack packs.
  • Green Pastures Christian Retreat Center: Replacing a deteriorating amphitheater to ensure camper safety.

Youth Engagement: Encouraging local youth involvement through education, leadership, and community activities.

  • Bunker Hill FFA: Assisting with fundraising efforts through pork burger sales at school events.
  • Kaskaskia College Foundation: Supporting the Royale Winter Gala to foster community connection.
  • Women Changing the Face of Agriculture: Backing an event that exposes 600 high school females to diverse careers in agriculture through hands-on experiences.
  • Western Illinois University - School of Agriculture: Sponsoring an open house event to engage and recruit high school students.
  • FFA and 4-H Foundations: Committing $12,500 annually to support FFA and 4-H programs in states where we operate.

Ag Education: Promoting agricultural literacy and hands-on learning experiences for all ages.

  • Illinois Livestock Skillathon Supporters: Developing hands-on livestock practice kits and 3D-printed educational materials.
  • Buena Vista Ag in the Classroom: Expanding agricultural education resources in classrooms.
  • IKM-Manning FFA: Contributing to an inclusive, accessible greenhouse project to enhance community partnerships and learning opportunities.

Employee & Partner: Empowering employees and partners to give back and engage with local communities.

  • The Maschhoffs Future Leader Scholarship: This spring, we are proud to award four scholarships to dependents of our employees and production partners. With 20 applications under review, recipients will be announced following the March board meeting, highlighting our dedication to fostering the next generation of leaders.
  • Donation and Match Program: Donating and matching over $4,500 to support causes important to our employees.
  • Volunteer Day: Providing one paid volunteer day to encourage employees to give back to their communities.

We’re excited to invite our employees, partners, and community members to discover how The Maschhoffs Impact can support you! If you have a project that aligns with our focus areas and benefits the communities where we operate, we want to hear from you! Submit your proposal and let’s make a difference together—our Impact Board reviews submissions quarterly, so don’t miss the opportunity to bring your idea to life!

Grant and scholarship details, application forms, and program guidelines are available at themaschhoffs.com/community. For questions, please contact us at impact@pigsrus.net.

Thank you for supporting The Maschhoffs Impact! Together, we’re making a difference and investing in the future of our communities.