Peoples Bank & Trust Donates $7,000 to White Hall Healthy Hoops Project
September 22, 2025
– Peoples Bank & Trust is proud to announce that it recently donated $7,000 to assist with the final construction costs and completion of the “Healthy Hoops” project being led by the White Hall Park Board. The goal of the project is to bring a full-size basketball court to Whiteside Park.
Peoples Bank & Trust President and CEO, John Gardner stated, “Supporting projects like Healthy Hoops is one way we can invest in the future of our communities. At Peoples Bank & Trust, we’re proud to help create safe, positive spaces for families and youth, while strengthening the connections that make White Hall such a special place.”
The Healthy Hoops Project, developed by the White Hall Park Board and approved by the White Hall City Council, will feature a two-hoop, 72’ x 52’ court. This new addition to Whiteside Park will provide youth with a safe and accessible place to play basketball, encourage community gatherings, and attract visitors to the city—ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life in White Hall.
Formed in 2021, the White Hall Park Board is made up of local residents dedicated to improving and revitalizing city parks. Board members include Lindsey Coultas and Kelsey Nell, and Penny Eilers. Since its founding, the board has successfully completed several projects, including:
- Kayak rentals at Custer Park (2021)
- Installation of new playground equipment at Whiteside Park, including a handicapped-accessible swing (2022)
- Renovation of existing tennis courts into dual-purpose tennis and pickleball courts (2024).
“When I was a kid basketball was huge. The basketball court was a place to make friends and bring kids together. Our goal is that this court will do the exact same for the kids of today. It is so good for our community.,” said Mayor Michael Kleidon.
“The Peoples Bank & Trust donation helps to seal the deal for what we need. Whiteside park is great for our little kids and now, with this basketball court, we will have something for the bigger kids too.” said Park Board Member Lindsey Coultas.
Pam Van Meter, Park Board Chairman, added, “This is a whole team / whole town project. Even past residents who have heard about the Healthy Hoops project have sent in contributions.”
Penny Eilers said, “We have received donations of all amounts, $10, $20, $50, $100 and more. Plus, we are receiving donations of labor and materials.”
With the Healthy Hoop project, the White Hall Park Board continues its mission of creating safe, fun, and inclusive spaces for residents and visitors alike.
Accepting the donation from Rob Lyman, Community Bank President and Krystal Bradley, AVP Consumer Banking are Mayor Mike Kleidon, Pam Van Meter, Chairman of Parks and Penny Eilers and Lindsey Coultas, Park Board Members.
Peoples Bank & Trust is a full-service bank offering outstanding customer service to consumers, small businesses, and farmers in Central Illinois. People First Bancshares, Inc., with corporate offices in Pana, Illinois, is the holding company for Peoples Bank & Trust.
For more information on Peoples Bank & Trust and their available banking services or how they can help with consumer or business lending needs, contact the bank at 888-728-1954 or visit www.BankPBT.com.