Mission Statement
"Quad Cities Interfaith empowers faith-driven and community leaders to unite, act, and speak with a strong, shared voice for a just Quad Cities."
History
QCI began in 1986 as a coalition of congregations and people of faith to provide an interfaith response to the farm crisis. Reverend Keunning was pastor of Church of Peace, and was also involved with the formation of the Community Caring Conference, which is based at Church of Peace. At the same time, local clergy, led by Rev Kuenning, Rev. Grimes, Joe Smith, Thomas Kilbride and others began to talk about addressing systemic injustices and larger issues like joblessness and foreclosures in the QCA. Reverend William Grimes was one of the first local clergy to organize around the idea that the faith community should lead in the work for addressing systemic injustices in the QCA. Already a recognized community activist, Reverend Grimes lent his considerable reputation and leadership to the effort of forming Quad Cities Interfaith. From this work they began to think strategically about forming an organization that could address community needs and combat systemic injustices and racism. Rev. Kuenning, working with Monsignor Mottet, connected QCI to Greg Galluzzo and the Gamaliel Network out of Chicago and the rest is history. From their efforts, Quad Cities Interfaith was formed. With leadership from Thomas Kilbride who provided the legal support to form the organization, these pastors lead the development of a multi-faith coalition that has progressed ever since to create a more just Quad Cities.
Meet our Board
Mary Clarke, RN, PhD
A nurse leader and professor dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes and helping others through compassionate care, Mary is deeply committed to social justice and advancing health equity — with a focus on reducing disparities and expanding access to care for underserved populations.
Dr. Clarke brings strong leadership and research expertise to initiatives that strengthen communities and promote well-being for all. She joined QCI in 2023 and is proud to support its mission of creating meaningful, lasting impact in the communities it serves.
In her free time, Mary enjoys quilting, sports, and spending time with family and her shih tzus, Boo Boo and Miss Beasley.
Julie Henke
TreasurerJulie is a long-time member of the Q.C.I. Board, currently serving as Treasurer.
In addition to a full-time position as a Safety Officer for a mid-size QC manufacturing company, Julie participates in as many social justice actions and events as possible — most recently the "March on Washington 2026: Defend the Vote" in August.
Daniel Meden
A proud Eagle Scout with over 12 years of public service experience, Dan taught high school biology in Uganda with the Peace Corps (2012–2014) and has championed social justice causes around the Quad Cities ever since. He's known for supporting environmental stewardship, disability awareness, and LGBT+ pride events, and has volunteered at numerous grassroots events. Within QCI, he supports the Grants Team.
Community engagement, environmental stewardship, and education are his greatest values. Through QCI, he has supported the rent abatement program with the Quad Cities Tenant Alliance and the immigration coalition.
Outside of QCI, Daniel enjoys hiking, day trips, card and board games, and reading nature and self-help books.
Rev. Janine Johnson
Janine joined the Q.C.I. Board in June 2025 as a member at large, with a passion for human rights and social justice for all.
Pr. Janine has served as Director of Outreach & Hunger Ministries for Zion Lutheran in Davenport, as well as Pastor of Calvary Lutheran in Buffalo, and Interim Pastor of St. Mark Lutheran in Davenport.
Elizabeth (Beth) Longlett
Beth grew up in Davenport and has made a career out of working for the church in various ways, currently serving as accounting coordinator for the Diocese of Davenport.
She has always had a strong sense of social justice and caring for community — particularly the foster care system, feeding the hungry, and housing justice and affordability. Active in Q.C.I.'s Quad Cities Tenant Alliance housing justice campaign, she knows the value and importance of being part of a strong collective voice for the rights of all people.
Beth also enjoys her children and grandson, cooking & baking, dinner and Bible study with friends, listening to podcasts by Brené Brown and Fr. Richard Rohr, and her dog, Mack.