Howard & Howard has donated $12,500 to the Heart of Illinois United Way as part of its 150th anniversary “12 Months of Giving” philanthropic initiative.

The gift was announced at the Heart of Illinois United Way’s annual “Power of the Purse” fundraising event on May 9.

The mission of “Power of the Purse” is to enhance and strengthen the lives of women and children by raising funds for education, financial stability, and health.

The donation is part of a year-long charitable campaign involving all Howard & Howard’s offices and their respective communities. To mark its 150th anniversary, the firm will make donations totaling $150,000 this year to various community and charitable groups in Illinois, Michigan, and Nevada.

A ceremonial check was presented to Heart of Illinois United Way representatives at the “Power of the Purse” event, which was held at the Par-a-Dice Hotel in East Peoria.