In what ways have you been involved with United Way?
I've been on United Way's Board of Directors for a total of 15+ years. I've served as President-Elect twice, Marketing chairperson, and ran the Midwest Transit Equipment campaign before joining the board.
During my time on the board, I helped secure the gift that started the United Way in Iroquois County and was awarded the co-volunteer award for helping run the United Way in a time of transition. I ran the organization, paid all invoices, set up an office, etc.. while we did not have staff that season. I was also the one that created the car raffle and ran that for many years, which was previously one of our largest fundraisers. I absolutely love the United Way and it has been a big part of me.
What inspired you to become involved with United Way?
I was born and raised in Kankakee County and it has been great to me and my family. It is in our DNA to give back. I love the way United Way reaches so many agencies and people in need.
What aspect of United Way's work do you connect with most?
Servant leadership. Serving other people and giving back by volunteering, giving monetarily and giving my talents toward helping other people. I also believe in education and working with children to make the world a better place.
Why do you think it's important to support United Way's mission?
It is so important to improve the lives of the people in our community to advance the common good. There are many people in need and I am glad to have the resources to help in any way I can.
Who is John Keigher?
John was born and raised in Bradley and has been a part of Kankakee County all his life. He retired after the sale of Midwest Transit after being there for 25 years, serving as Owner, Director and VP of Systems and HR. When Midwest Transit sold they were the largest privately-held new and used bus distributor in the USA. He recently retired a second time after selling Urban Farmer, where he was the CEO, official taste tester, and was on the Board of Directors.
John married his high school sweetheart Shanon and they have been married 33 years. They have two children - his daughter Jordan teaches Special Education and his son Jonathan joined him in both businesses and works in HR and Safety. John and Shanon have two grandchildren: Penelope Rose and Charlotte Jay.
John continues to live out his passion to help people and to be a servant leader in our community.