Best Dubuque County Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

Since 2003, we have inspired people to give back to their community. We turn this generosity into lasting change across our region, increasing access to resources and opportunities that help all people succeed.

Gary Dolphin Journalism Grant

The Dolphin Journalism Grant program’s goal is to help fund journalism initiatives in the tri-state area. The grant provides funds to entities and institutions seeking to provide local news and information to the area.

Grant Structure

• The Grant Fund may provide funds to assist in the recruitment and retention of local journalists working in a locally owned and operated journalism entity.
• The Grant Fund may provide funds to assist locally owned and operated journalism entities with resources to help create, manage and distribute local news and information.

About Gary Dolphin

Gary recognizes that local journalism, reporting, communications and broadcasting are important to every local community. In order to help organizations who want to provide local news and information in the tri-state area, this fund will provide operating grants to help them reach their goals and serve the community in this way.

Growing up in the small town of Cascade, Iowa - just down the road from Dubuque - Gary has been involved in reporting and broadcasting almost all his life. From broadcasting high school games on local radio, to television anchor, to syndicated college and professional sports, Gary was selected as the "Voice of the Hawkeyes" and is the play-by-play announcer for both Iowa Football and Basketball games. In addition, he has volunteered or been asked to MC numerous fundraising events for others over the decades.

Judi Chandlee Tribute to Teachers Classroom Grants

The family of Judi Chandlee, a longtime Dubuque Community School District teacher, has established an endowed (permanent) fund in her memory, with the Foundation for Dubuque Public Schools. This fund supports annual classroom grants to teachers across the district. A minimum of $5,000 will be distributed each year to fund equipment, supplies, or innovative educational experiences in Dubuque’s public schools.  

Gifts to the Judi Chandlee Tribute to Teachers Endowment are permanently invested with our partner, the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, where they are eligible for Endow Iowa 25% Tax Credits. Current donors include anyone who wishes to support Dubuque’s public school teachers.