Mentesti named recipient of Joe Bonansinga Community Service Award Recipient

QUINCY — United Way of Adams County and the Rotary Club of Quincy announced Monday that this year’s Joe Bonansinga Community Service Award recipient is Jim Mentesti. He was honored Monday during the Rotary Club’s weekly meeting at the Holiday Inn. 

He served as president of the Great River Economic Development Foundation from 1985 to 2012 

Mentesti’s tenure began during a time of uncertainty for Quincy because of the departure of Motorola. Working behind the scenes, Mentesti played a pivotal role in filling the Schneidman Industrial Park, launching new developments like the Adams Industrial Park, and attracting key businesses such as WisPak bottling and facilitating the expansion of Knapheide Manufacturing after the flood of 1993.

Mentesti championed quality-of-life initiatives. He was instrumental in the launch of Great River First Tee, an organization that teaches youth life skills through the game of golf, and supported the Bill Klingner Trail and Friends of the Trails initiatives. His commitment extended to Quincy University, the Quincy Park District and countless partnerships with civic leaders.

Mentesti also helped forge regional cooperation through the Tri-State Development Summit.

Other finalists for this year’s award were Jack Freiburg and Rev. Orville Jones.

The Joe Bonansinga “Mr. Quincy” Community Service Award, established in 1998, is presented annually by United Way of Adams County and the Rotary Club of Quincy to honor a person who exemplifies the highest standards of community service. This award recognizes leaders who demonstrate service leadership, enthusiastic motivation, impactful community involvement, perseverance and a commitment to helping others.

For more information about the Joe Bonansinga Award, contact Natalie Cornwell at natalie@unitedwayadamsco.org or 217-222-5020.