ArtsPartners of Central Illinois presented John and Jeff Heintzman with the 2019 ArtsPartners of the Year Award in October. For over 30 years, they have tirelessly supported the arts in Greater Peoria, serving as directors of the Peoria Art Guild’s Fine Art Fair; leading hundreds of docent tours for the Peoria Riverfront Museum, Peoria Heights Sculpture Walk and Sculpture Walk Peoria; and volunteering for a range of other arts organizations—providing curatorial assistance for exhibits, serving on committees, and providing invaluable support to local artists.

“John and Jeff Heintzman have set a sterling example for what it means to serve as an educator, advocate and champion for the arts in our community,” notes ArtsPartners Board President Kristan McKinsey. “Their lives overflow with examples of what it means to freely give of your time, talent and energy,” adds Cathi Hawkinson, former director of the Fine Art Fair. “They exemplify the true meaning of the word volunteer.” PM