New Charity Fund Launched to Honor Lehan Family in DeKalb

A new charitable initiative has been established in DeKalb, Illinois, honoring the Lehan family, known for their longstanding commitment to the community through their pharmacy, Lehan Drugs. The DeKalb County Community Foundation announced the creation of the Jon and Briana Lehan Family Community Fund this month, designed to promote equity and enhance community well-being in the area.

The fund was initiated by Jon and Briana Lehan, who are deeply rooted in the DeKalb community. Jon Lehan has lived in DeKalb for his entire life, with family ties dating back to 1946, when his grandfather and uncle relocated from Michigan to establish Lehan Drugs. In a recent statement, the Lehans expressed their hope that the fund would reflect their family’s values of “service, kindness, and care for one another.” They aim to honor their predecessors while instilling these principles in their own children and the broader DeKalb community.

The Lehans’ dedication to DeKalb is evident through generations of volunteerism and philanthropy. Jon’s upbringing was infused with a sense of community service, while Briana, who grew up near Milwaukee, was influenced by her parents’ active participation in various community and church organizations. Her family’s philanthropic legacy further inspired her, especially during her internship at the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, where she witnessed firsthand the impactful role of community foundations.

After meeting at the University of Iowa, Jon and Briana spent time in California while Jon served on active duty in the U.S. Air Force. The couple returned to DeKalb in 2008 to join the family business, reinforcing their commitment to community service. The values of kindness and stewardship remain central to their family life, which they hope to pass on to their four children.

Fund’s Mission and Community Impact

The Jon and Briana Lehan Family Community Fund aims to support local projects and organizations that work towards enhancing equity and improving overall well-being in DeKalb County. Through the Community Needs Grant program, the fund will provide grants that address critical issues such as food insecurity, access to affordable housing and mental health services, and support for marginalized populations. Additionally, the fund will promote environmental initiatives, including land and forest preservation and outdoor education programs.

The establishment of this fund significantly increases the resources available for addressing community needs, aligning with the Foundation’s strategic priorities. Dan Templin, Executive Director of the DeKalb County Community Foundation, emphasized the privilege of partnering with the Lehan family to steward this endowed fund. He noted that it will grow over time and continually provide support to organizations making a positive impact in the community.

Individuals interested in contributing to the Jon and Briana Lehan Family Community Fund can make donations online at dekalbccf.org or by mail to the DeKalb County Community Foundation, located at 475 DeKalb Avenue, Sycamore. For those looking to create their own named fund or to discuss charitable interests, Templin is available for contact at 815-748-5383 or via email at [email protected].

This new initiative marks a significant step in strengthening community ties and enhancing the quality of life for residents in DeKalb County, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Lehan family.