HARRISBURG, Ill. (WSIL) — A major regional investment is fueling the modernization and expansion of the SIH Mulberry Center. This is reported as the only nonprofit inpatient mental health facility of its kind serving southernmost Illinois. The facility provides critical psychiatric care in a supportive medical environment, helping individuals and families across the region access timely, compassionate treatment.
Legence Bank has pledged $75,000 to the SIH Foundation for the project. This commitment is strengthened by personal contributions of $25,000 each from Kevin and Jeannie Beckemeyer of Marion and Martin and Angie Rowe of Harrisburg, bringing the total leadership investment to $125,000.
“There are moments when leadership requires more than words — it requires action,” said Kevin Beckemeyer, president and CEO of Legence Bank. “As a community bank, we understand the health of our region directly impacts its economic stability. Access to behavioral and mental health services is foundational. When individuals and families have access to quality care close to home, it strengthens our workforce, supports employers and enhances long-term community resilience.”
Beckemeyer emphasized that the investment reflects personal commitment as well as corporate support. “Mental health is not abstract. It affects neighbors, friends, employees and families we care about,” he said.
Jeannie Beckemeyer, who has worked in social services, highlighted the importance of holistic care. “The mind and body are deeply connected,” she said. “The holistic approach embraced by the SIH Mulberry Center aligns with what I believe is essential for long-term wellness. This expansion will allow more individuals and families to receive advanced care close to home, reducing barriers and strengthening the overall health of Southern Illinois.”
Angie Rowe, chair of the SIH Harrisburg Medical Center Foundation Board, said the gift advances the board’s long-term vision. “This accelerates our progress in very tangible ways,” she said. “It strengthens our ability to modernize facilities, expand access and implement the vision our board has been working toward. When respected community leaders step forward, it inspires confidence and encourages broader participation.”
Rowe and her husband, Martin Rowe, president and CEO of First Eldorado Bancshares Inc., made their $25,000 contribution personally.
From a regional economic perspective, Tricia Overturf, Legence Bank vice president of marketing and communications, said the project sends a strong message. “Keeping advanced care local strengthens economic stability, supports employers and enhances quality of life,” she said. “When private sector leadership partners with healthcare systems, it signals that mental health matters. This is an investment in sustainability and in the future of Southern Illinois.”
Rodney Smith, SIH Harrisburg Medical Center vice president and administrator, praised the partnership. “When both an institution and its leaders personally invest in a project like this, it sends a powerful message,” he said. “This unified commitment reinforces that behavioral health is a priority in our region. The modernization of the SIH Mulberry Center will enhance patient dignity, expand capacity and ensure families can access compassionate care close to home.”
Jennifer Sigler, Ph.D., SIH Foundation director, described the gift as transformational. “Beyond the financial impact, Legence Bank’s commitment demonstrates shared belief — from corporate leadership to individual families — in the future of health care in Southern Illinois. It builds momentum and moves vision into reality.”
The combined support from corporate and personal leaders underscores the growing regional emphasis on behavioral health as an essential component of community wellbeing and economic resilience.