DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Macon Resources, Inc. has announced the 2026 recipients of their "Champions of Change" award.
The nonprofit announced Susan and Mark Avery will receive the award, which is presented annually to a business or people who have greatly impacted the people served by MRI.
In late 2025, the Averys gifted an office building to Macon Resources that will be renovated into an eight-person home for people served by MRI with developmental disabilities that are independent enough to live on their own.
The home will offer independent living opportunities while providing support to allow for a more independent lifestyle, according to the nonprofit.
"Susan and Mark's gracious donation will be life-changing for some of our persons served," MRI President/CEO Amy Bliefnick said. "This facility will provide quality housing and a safe environment with support to ensure our persons served can build meaningful lives in every way."
The new building will become the 10th group home operated by MRI. The Averys will be honored at the MRI Field Day annual community event.
"Donating our office building to Macon Resources was about investing in an organization that changes lives every day," the Averys said. "We wanted this asset to continue serving the community by supporting the mission of Macon Resources and the people they empower."
The Field Day event will be from 12-2 p.m. on May 7th, beginning with an award ceremony honoring the Averys, as well as recognizing one MRI staff member with the "employee of excellence" award and one person served by MRI with the "individual of impact" award.
There will be lunch, a basketball and kickball game featuring people served by MRI, live music by the Jerry and Dewaine Duo, and a walk-through MRI art show showcasing art made by several people served by the nonprofit.
The event will take place at the Macon Resources building at 2121 Hubbard Avenue in its outdoor recreation area.
More information can be found on the MRI website.
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