JWCC Recipient of 2500 Clear Masks from Down County Organization

September 15, 2021

JWCC Recipient of 2500 Clear Masks from Down County Organization

John Wood Community College was a recent recipient of Down Country’s donation of clear masks to Tri-State area schools to ensure no child is left behind due to not being able to see lips. The mask donations are part of Down Country’s #Smile4EveryChild Campaign. JWCC received 2,500 masks.

“This story is what community is all about,” shared JWCC President Michael Elbe. “We are strongest together and for a nonprofit to pay it forward in this manner is remarkable. We are grateful for this generous gift and applaud the work of Down Country.”

Down Country’s mission is dedicated to helping provide training and promoting positive awareness for individuals of all disabilities and abilities.

According to President & Founder of Down Country Kate Dougherty, almost 20,000 clear masks will be making their way to area schools across the Tri-States. The masks are reusable washable cotton masks with a clear window. The transparent section makes the wearer’s lips visible, making lip-reading and making out the speaker’s facial expressions much easier.

Masks are free to JWCC students and employees. They will be available at the Quincy campus front desk and soon to JWCC’s four regional centers.

To donate to the #SmileforEveryChild campaign, please visit: www.upatdowncountry.com

Picture:  JWCC President Michael Elbe with Down Country Representative and JWCC employee Tammy Humphrey.


John Wood Community College is the educational link between business and community. JWCC collaboratively creates innovative and relevant academic and training programs with business leaders to educate young people and the workforce for today's needs and tomorrow's opportunities. JWCC has centers in Quincy, Pittsfield, Baylis and Mt. Sterling, Illinois. Programs include a comprehensive baccalaureate transfer curriculum, customized business training, career/technical degrees, certificates, and personal enrichment courses.