Banking on YOUth Classroom Grants
Congratulations Teachers and Students!
Mercantile Bank is pleased to announce the Banking on YOUth Grant recipients for the 2025-26 school year. Nine grants were awarded to teachers at seven schools. Each grant recipient has received their grant monies and our thanks for their efforts on behalf of all area students.
Banking on YOUth Grant Recipients 2025-26 School Year
Arts & Humanities
- Barbara Van Manen, Palmyra Elementary School
Books & Materials
- Shanna Lonsberry, Baldwin Elementary School
- Carey Ott, Palmyra Elementary School
- Emily Riese, St. Peter School
Field Trips & Transportation
- Heather Friday, Blessed Sacrament School
- Brooke Stratton, St. Peter School
Health & Fitness
- Katie ONeal, St. Dominic School
Science & Technology
- Jason Ruff, QHS, QAVTC
Special Initiatives
- Kathy Womack, Iles Elementary School
Banking on YOUth, now in its twenty-seventh year, awards funds to help provide special classroom projects and programs that expand and enhance the learning experience of students Pre-K-12 in the Quincy and Palmyra public or parochial school system.
Grant applications for the 2026-27 school year will be accepted starting in March 2026.
Consideration is given to unique and creative projects that encourage students' participation and broaden their classroom and community involvement as well as help develop alternative and effective methods of learning life skills. Since 2000, more than 360 grants totaling over $97,000 have been awarded to Quincy and Palmyra classrooms.
Mercantile Bank is committed to the community and believes that community success is directly related to the quality of its schools. Banking on YOUth is a lasting investment in the community's future. Teachers who have questions, or who would like more information about the program should call 217-223-7300 or email us at info@mercbanx.com.
