About The Gilmore Foundation
The Gilmore Foundation is a private foundation established in 2009 which supports the development and improvement of the tri-county community — Peoria, Tazewell and Woodford counties. The Foundation’s areas of focus are: 1) enhancing culture related to art, music, dance, history and theater, 2) improving society through youth development, human services, abuse prevention, education and shelters and 3) job creation through capital improvement projects which assist in the development of the community’s infrastructure.
Bob Gilmore
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Born in 1920, Bob Gilmore grew up in Peoria during the Great Depression. He served 30 missions as a B-17 Air Force navigator in Europe during World War II before starting at third shift in the machine shop at Caterpillar Tractor Company. Bob eventually served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Caterpillar from 1977 to 1985. For the last 40 years, Bob and his foundation have been quietly supporting charities, cultural initiatives, and job creation in his beloved hometown of Peoria.
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“Peoria is a unique community and has great potential to grow if not in population in ʻlivabilityʼ. To the extent the Gilmore Foundation can enhance that possibility over the years it will serve the purposes for which it was intended…”
Artist: Jeremy Berkley
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For his work as a steadfast supporter of the arts and the greater Peoria community, Bob was chosen to have his portrait painted for the Big Picture Initiative–a passion project of a dedicated group of volunteers who believe that art can change the world–starting with our community. Bob’s portrait currently hangs in The Romain Arts & Culture Center, and his legacy of support and philanthropy continues through the work of his foundation.
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Contact: |
Laura Cullinan, President
Gilmore Foundation 5823 N. Forest Park Drive Peoria, IL 61614 Phone: 309.685.0033 Fax: 309.685.3665 |