Search Through Grants for Special Education in Iowa in the U.S.

Mission

The mission of the Hearst Foundations is to identify and fund outstanding nonprofits to ensure that people of all backgrounds in the United States can build healthy, productive and satisfying lives. Through its grantmaking, the Hearst Foundations support well-established nonprofit organizations that address significant issues within their major areas of focus—culture, education, health and social service—and that primarily serve large demographic and/or geographic constituencies. In each area of funding, the Foundations seek to identify those organizations achieving truly differentiated results relative to other organizations making similar efforts for similar populations. The Foundations also look for evidence of sustainability beyond their support.

Whether providing a scholarship to a deserving student, supporting a rural health clinic or bringing artists into schools so children can see firsthand the beauty of the arts, the Foundations’ focus is consistent: to help those in need, those underserved and those underrepresented in society. Since the Foundations were formed in the 1940s, the scale and capabilities of the grant making have changed, but the mission has not.

Culture Grant

The Hearst Foundations fund cultural institutions that offer meaningful programs in the arts and sciences, prioritizing those that enable engagement by young people and create a lasting and measurable impact. The Foundations also fund select programs nurturing and developing artistic talent. Supported organizations include arts schools, ballets, museums, operas, performing arts centers, symphonies and theaters.

Funding Priorities in Culture

In the recent past, 25% of total funding has been allocated to Culture. Organizations with budgets over $10 million have received 60% of the funding in Culture.

The Hearst Foundations are only able to fund approximately 25% of all grant requests, of which about 80% is directed to prior grantees and about 20% is targeted toward new grantees.

Types of Support

Program, capital and, on a limited basis, general and endowment support

Valero Energy Foundation 

Valero, its employees and the Valero Energy Foundation are committed to improving the quality of life in communities where we work and live, fulfilling a mission that was set from the beginning. We set the standard for corporate citizenship and promotes prosperity in our communities. 

The Valero Energy Foundation -- a public charity and Valero's philanthropic arm -- funds nonprofit agencies that serve predominantly disadvantaged children and families. In 2019, the Foundation contributed appoximately $40 million in assistance in the communities where Valero has major operations.

Four Pillars of Support

Our funding focuses on our four pillars of giving in communities where we have major operations.

• Basic Needs:  Valero gives assistance to agencies that provide basic needs of life, including shelter, food and clothing necessary for the development of a strong and safe community. 
• Health Care: We invest in the development of strategic community health resources and facilities that will support the needs of all members of our nearby communities, with major gifts going to children’s hospitals, university medical centers and service providers that offer specialized health care services and programs.
• Education: Valero is a strong advocate of education as it creates a necessary foundation for all children to thrive and for adults to lead productive lives. 
• Civic: We support civic and environmental initiatives directly related to the success of the communities where we live and work.

Clay County Community Foundation

Connecting Donors Who Care With Causes That Matter

The Clay County Community Foundation (CCCF) is a publicly supported, tax-exempt organization created by and for the people of Clay County, Iowa to invest the gifts received from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from these endowed funds are used to make grants to public charities and governmental organizations that best meet the needs of Clay County.

The Mission of the Clay County Community Foundation is to connect donors who care, with causes that matter, and to serve as a trusted resource for addressing issues that impact the quality of life in Clay County.

Grant Guidelines & Instructions

The Clay County Community Foundation distributes funds to non-profit organizations in Clay County each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCCF Simple, Standard and Impact Grants are accepted from non-profit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Clay County.

Impact Grant

CCCF Prioritized Needs (in no particular order)

Clay County Community Foundation

Connecting Donors Who Care With Causes That Matter

The Clay County Community Foundation (CCCF) is a publicly supported, tax-exempt organization created by and for the people of Clay County, Iowa to invest the gifts received from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from these endowed funds are used to make grants to public charities and governmental organizations that best meet the needs of Clay County.

The Mission of the Clay County Community Foundation is to connect donors who care, with causes that matter, and to serve as a trusted resource for addressing issues that impact the quality of life in Clay County.

Grant Guidelines & Instructions

The Clay County Community Foundation distributes funds to non-profit organizations in Clay County each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCCF Simple, Standard and Impact Grants are accepted from non-profit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Clay County.

Simple Grant

Applicants seeking amounts under $3,000 will use the Simple Grant Application form.

CCCF Prioritized Needs (in no particular order)

Clay County Community Foundation

Connecting Donors Who Care With Causes That Matter

The Clay County Community Foundation (CCCF) is a publicly supported, tax-exempt organization created by and for the people of Clay County, Iowa to invest the gifts received from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from these endowed funds are used to make grants to public charities and governmental organizations that best meet the needs of Clay County.

The Mission of the Clay County Community Foundation is to connect donors who care, with causes that matter, and to serve as a trusted resource for addressing issues that impact the quality of life in Clay County.

Grant Guidelines & Instructions

The Clay County Community Foundation distributes funds to non-profit organizations in Clay County each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCCF Simple, Standard and Impact Grants are accepted from non-profit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Clay County.

CCCF, Iowa (IA) Standard Grant

Grant requests may range from a $3,000 minimum to a $10,000 maximum. Applicants will use the Standard/Impact Grant Application Form.

CCCF Prioritized Needs (in no particular order)

The purpose of the Clay County Community Foundation is to connect donors who care with causes that matter, and to serve as a trusted resource for addressing issues that impact the quality of life in our county. 

The Clay County Community Foundation Board of Directors awards grants based on donor wishes, county needs, and a proposing organization's capacity to provide effective service to the people of Clay County. Grants support present and emerging needs in the areas of community betterment, education, health, arts and culture, and human services.

Community Betterment Grants

The Clay County Community Foundation anticipates having more than $85,000 to distribute to nonprofit organizations in Clay County by March of each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCCF Community Betterment Grants are currently being requested from nonprofit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Clay County.

Clay County Community Foundation funds can be used for broad, flexible purposes, including assisting arts and culture, economic development, education, environment, health and human services, recreation areas and supporting high-impact community opportunities. Funds are intended for new projects, or for the enhancement or expansion of existing services, programs, or facilities; on-going operational expenses of an organization are not eligible for grant funding. Grant requests may range from a $500 minimum to a $10,000 maximum. 

CCCF Prioritized Needs (in no particular order)

Economic Development/Quality Job Creation – Focus is on innovative non-traditional economic development activities, i.e. youth entrepreneurial development programs, artist entrepreneurship programs, microenterprise lending programs, etc. and creation of new jobs or expansion of existing jobs.

Activities (Cultural, Recreational, Social and Educational) – Special emphasis is placed on activities that bring people together throughout the county, and that bring people to the county. 

Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities – This includes trails, campgrounds and other recreational facilities. 

Utilize and Support Existing Organizations, Resources, Services and Facilities that Contribute to Quality of Life – Includes projects to more effectively market or make services and programs more fully available to people, whether through better marketing or through efforts to accommodate employed parents schedules, or the scheduling preferences or requirements of senior citizens, youth individuals with special needs, etc. 

Health and Human Services – This includes projects offering mental health, medical or dental services and those providing other assistance resources to the community or efforts to help residents find those resources.

Grant Guidelines & Instructions

The Cherokee County Legacy Foundation distributes funds to non-profit organizations in Cherokee County each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCLF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Grants are accepted from non-profit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Cherokee County.

Bronze Grant

Applicants seeking amounts under $3,000 will use the Bronze Grant Application form.

CCLF Prioritized Needs

(in no particular order)

Grant Guidelines & Instructions

The Cherokee County Legacy Foundation distributes funds to non-profit organizations in Cherokee County each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCLF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Grants are accepted from non-profit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Cherokee County.

Gold Grant

These requests may range from $10,001 to $25,000. The application process for the Gold Grant begins with a Letter of Intent to Apply, submitted to the CCLF by November 15. Letter should be submitted electronically to the CCLF via its email address at cclf51012@gmail.com. In this letter, (a maximum of 2 pages) the following items should be included:

• Description of the organization applying
• Description of the project
• Overview of funding sources and the grant amount requested
• Impact the project will have on Cherokee County communities
• Contact information for person in charge of the project.

Applicant may be required to attend an interview with the CCLF Board of Directors during the review process. Notification of approval to move forward will be received in early December. If selected as a finalist for a Gold Grant, applicants must complete the Gold Grant Application Form.

CCLF Prioritized Needs

(in no particular order)

Grant Guidelines & Instructions

The Cherokee County Legacy Foundation distributes funds to non-profit organizations in Cherokee County each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCLF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Grants are accepted from non-profit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Cherokee County.

Silver Grant

Grant requests may range from a $3,001 minimum to a $10,000 maximum. Applicants will use the Silver/Gold Grant Application Form.

CCLF Prioritized Needs

(in no particular order)

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Akron Community Foundation

Background

Florence Peterson had a vision to ensure that charitable programs in the community were supported now and in the future. In 2001, she planted the first seeds of giving through a gift from her estate to establish an endowment within the Siouxland Community Foundation for the exclusive benefit of the Akron, Iowa community. The Akron Community Foundation now serves as a vehicle to receive gifts from individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to establish endowment funds that will provide grant awards for years to come. All gifts received are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in Akron. A seven-member advisory board appointed by position is responsible for governing the Foundation.

Mission

The mission of the Akron Community Foundation is to identify and fulfill community needs, impact future growth and development of Akron, promote volunteerism, attract and distribute funds, and enhance the quality of life in Akron by providing leadership, creating opportunities, and challenging the community to share time, talent, and resources through personal involvement and commitment.

The purpose of the Akron Community Foundation is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in the Akron community.

Akron Community Foundation Grant

Purpose

The purpose of the Akron Community Foundation’s grant program is to respond to present and emerging charitable needs within Akron by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

Grantmaking

The great majority of grants are given to organizations located in, and for projects to be conducted within, the state of Iowa and portions of Illinois, as well as to other organizations in which Mr. Carver had an interest during his lifetime. Generally speaking, the Carver Trust supports biomedical and scientific research, scholarships, and programs addressing the educational and recreational needs of youth. 

Program Areas

Elementary and Secondary Education

Supporting educational opportunities for youth, beginning with kindergarten and continuing through high school graduation, is a cornerstone of Carver Trust giving. Grant-making activities in this area may be divided into three, broad categories, each with the goal of enhancing access to resources and the application of innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Read more about this program area.

Higher Education

The Trust’s interests in the area of higher education extend to those projects that strengthen institutions and offer innovative learning opportunities to students enrolled in baccalaureate and graduate programs throughout the grant-making region of Iowa and parts of Illinois. Typically, funding is awarded to capital or programmatic initiatives that seek to substantively improve instruction or increase access to educational resources, with the goal of better preparing students for future academic and professional challenges. Projects incorporating interdisciplinary approaches and demonstrating the potential for lasting impact among a diverse range of students are especially encouraged. Read more about this program area.

Medical and Scientific Research

The goal of the Trust’s program in medical and scientific research is to provide support for innovative investigation that may hold great promise for advancing scientific knowledge and, in many cases, improving human health. To this end, the Trust has supported a variety of university-based scientific endeavors, most notably in the basic medical sciences, the chemical and biological sciences, and engineering. Although a majority of funding is awarded for the purpose of addressing institutional capital needs, a parallel focus of this program area is the research efforts of particular laboratories, often emphasizing multidisciplinary approaches and encouraging the development of untried, and inherently risky, specific aims. Read more about this program area.

Youth Services and Recreation

Projects receiving Trust funding under the youth program designation are typically designed to complement curriculum-based education and encourage individual development and physical well-being. Of the grants awarded within this category, a significant portion has been directed toward the efforts of organizations advocating for disadvantaged and disabled youth and their families. As an example, improving the conditions at adolescent residential facilities in Iowa, including those that offer opportunities for special-needs populations, has represented an important area of Trust charitable giving around the state.

In addition, grants to help communities establish safe and affordable recreation opportunities are also part of the youth-directed programming. The Trust offers strategic funding for the development of public recreation facilities and related activities for children, with priority given to projects in the Iowa counties of Muscatine, Cedar, Louisa and Scott, as well as Rock Island and Mercer Counties in Illinois. More information on the youth recreation program area may be found under Trust Initiated Programming & Guidelines.

Miscellaneous

Grants listed under this designation are those that, for various reasons, do not fall within the Trust’s primary program classifications. Many grants classified as miscellaneous are for projects receiving special consideration for their direct impact on the local Muscatine region.

Awards in this category of Trust giving may, for example, provide support to organizations mobilizing to help area residents following a natural disaster or emergency, such as flooding or storm damage. Other assistance of this type has been directed to local first-responder and law enforcement agencies, which have received occasional support for specialized medical, firefighting and policing equipment, as well as situations whereby certain area nonprofits are seeking one-time support for urgent capital or programming needs.

Still other miscellaneous grants celebrate special events and aspects of Muscatine and its history, as well as organizations and projects that share a unique connection to the life and interests of Roy Carver. Additionally, occasional grants in this program area may serve to emphasize important natural resources throughout the local area and the upper Mississippi River region, with a focus on projects that help to guide children and youth toward a deeper understanding of, and respect for, the ecosystem and surrounding environment.

Establishment of Foundation

John K. and Luise V. Hanson established and funded The Hanson Foundation in 1970 with $1,000,000. They contributed another $1,000,000 in 1988 and an additional $5 million in 1994. Upon John K. Hanson’s death in 1996, the foundation received $23 million from his estate.

Philanthropic Model

The John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation is listed as one of the Top 15 Foundations in Iowa, according to The Foundation Center, with total assets of approximately $72 million. The foundation has awarded over $64 million to nearly 1,000 organizations in more than 100 communities. Since 1970, the foundation has positively impacted the lives of tens of thousands of individuals by supporting projects that improve the quality of life for families.

Our Mission

The John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation is a private family foundation that gives back to communities and enhances the quality of life for individuals in north central Iowa. The foundation, also known as the Hanson Family Foundation, has a special interest in projects that strengthen families through arts and culture, family recreation, and youth development/education. Recognizing the value of innovative medical treatment to families, the foundation also has philanthropic ties to the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.

Primary Funding Areas

The John K. and Luise V. Hanson Family Foundation funds projects of all sizes that support a wide range of interests related to arts and culture, family recreation, and youth development/education. Since 1970, the foundation has strengthened organizations in more than 100 communities, primarily within north central Iowa. In 2021, the foundation celebrated surpassing $64 million in gifts.

What we Fund

• Arts & Culture
  • Previous projects include:
    • Clear Lake Arts Center
    • Boman Fine Arts Center
    • NIACC Arts and Leadership Series
    • Winnebago Historical Society / Heritage Park
• Family Recreation
  • Previous projects include:
    • Forest City YMCA
    • Pools / Aquatic Centers
    • Playgrounds
    • Biking Trails
• Youth Development/Education
  • Previous projects include:
    • Camp Tanglefoot
    • Clear Lake Yacht Club Sailing School
    • Eagle Scout Projects
    • Educational Technology

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Ida County Community Betterment Foundation

Background

The Ida County Community Betterment Foundation (ICCBF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The ICCBF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Ida County.

Mission

The mission of the ICCBF is to promote philanthropy, serve as a vehicle to carry out the charitable objective of donors, build endowments, identify needs and make grants for the benefit of the citizens and communities of Ida County.

The purpose of the ICCBF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Ida County.

Ida County Community Betterment Foundation Grant

Purpose

The purpose of the ICCBF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Ida County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.. 
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Monona County Community Partners Foundation

Background

The Monona County Community Partners Foundation (MCCPF) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of Monona County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in the county.

Mission

The mission of the Monona County Community Partners Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations in the communities it serves by linking philanthropic leadership and charitable resources with needs and opportunities in the county.

The purpose of the MCCPF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Monona County.

Monona County Community Partners Foundation Grant

The purpose of the MCCPF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Monona County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The Monona County Community Partners Foundation (MCCPF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The MCCPF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Monona County.

Mission

The mission of the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM) is to advance the progress of medicine and improve the public's health by providing U.S. researchers, health professionals, the public health workforce, educators, and the public with equal access to biomedical and health information resources and data. NNLM’s main goals are to work through libraries and other members to support a highly trained workforce for biomedical and health information resources and data, improve health literacy, and increase health equity through information.

Purpose

The NNLM Regional Medical Libraries (RMLs) and Offices rely upon partnerships. The award’s primary aims are to widen access to and awareness of health information resources, with a focus on those resources provided by the NLM. The programs are intended to help a variety of users:

• With a focus on minority and other underrepresented populations and the healthcare professionals who serve them
• Make the most effective use of information and decision-support resources to promote healthy behaviors
• Prevent costly and debilitating illness
• Improve health outcomes when disease occurs

Potential Project Ideas

Potential projects might include but are not limited to this list:

• Training underrepresented healthcare professionals or professionals that work with underrepresented populations in the effective use of electronic health information resources for evidence-based practice with an emphasis on NLM databases and NNLM resources.
• Placing web-accessible devices in locations where they can be used to research health information needs by unaffiliated healthcare professionals such as free clinics, community health centers, etc.
• Improving access to health information and technology for those groups without adequate access to information services.
• Exhibiting or presenting at local meetings or organizational events to share completed outreach projects and promote NLM products and services.
• Evaluating health information and training needs of a target audience and implementing a training plan for that audience.
• Programs on locating and evaluating authoritative consumer health information.
• Incorporating NLM health and science information resources into new or existing health programs. See National Health Observances for some ideas.
• Development of supplemental educational materials using NLM resources.  
• Train-the-Trainer projects that enhance the skills of the service-providing staff and other consumer health information intermediaries to train participants on locating and evaluating health information.

Our roots run deep.

The Ash Grove Charitable Foundation makes grants annually to support the work of public charities with tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in the geographical markets that we serve.

As one of the largest cement companies in the United States and one of the oldest still in operation, Ash Grove plays an important part in the foundation and infrastructure of our country. And with plants from coast to coast, being a good neighbor in the communities in which we live and serve is a priority and part of our DNA.

Ash Grove territory is a lot of ground to cover. We believe in active participation to improve the existing and future quality of life in the communities we serve. This participation includes financial support to charitable activities. We aren’t just focused on building highways and buildings – we are also helping to build better communities.

Ash Grove is one of the largest cement companies in the United States and one of the oldest still in operation. Ash Grove plays a part in the foundation and infrastructure of our country. With plants from coast to coast, being a good neighbor in the communities we live and serve is a priority and part of our DNA.

The Ash Grove Charitable Foundation mission is to support communities today without compromising future needs, where nature is respected, minds challenged, opportunities created, and neighbors gather in the community. We stand together to build better communities. Communities that thrive today and for future generations.

Funding Priorities

The Foundation awards grants to charitable, educational, and scientific organizations, which are public charities.

The Foundation gives primary consideration to capital building and renovation projects for the following funding priorities:

• Nature – Protect or Preserve.
• Education – STEM
• Economic – Trade Skills
• Civic – Gather in Community
• Human Services – Shelter

Funding

The Foundation’s goal is to provide significant support to public charities for capital building and renovation projects. Grants for these projects generally are limited to $25,000. Consideration is also given to program grant requests. Grants for these projects are generally limited to $5,000.

Community Foundation of Lyon County

Background

The Community Foundation of Lyon County (CFLC) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of Lyon County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowment funds is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs of Lyon County.

Mission

The mission of the Community Foundation of Lyon County is to enhance the overall quality of life in the county by providing opportunities for donors to leave a legacy, by building a permanent collection of endowment funds, and by making grants in response to priority community needs.

The purpose of the county-wide community foundation is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to serve as a trusted resource for addressing issues that impact the quality of life in Lyon County. An Advisory Board representing each community and the varied interests of Lyon County is responsible for governing the Foundation.

Community Foundation of Lyon County Grant

The purpose of the CFLC grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Lyon County by making grants in the following areas: 

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The CFLC Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Lyon County.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Sioux County Community Foundation

Background

The Sioux County Community Foundation (SCCF) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of Sioux County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in the county.

Mission

The mission of the Sioux County Community Foundation is to encourage and provide opportunities for charitable giving, to manage and distribute funds in a responsible manner, and to enhance the quality of life for the people of Sioux County, Iowa.

The purpose of the SCCF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Sioux County.

An Advisory Board representing each community and the varied interests of Sioux County is responsible for governing the Foundation.

Sioux County Community Foundation Grant

The purpose of the SCCF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Sioux County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events. 
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The Sioux County Community Foundation (SCCF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The SCCF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Sioux County.

Make a difference in your farm community!

Do your part to educate your community about farm safety and health. We’ll even give you the money to do it. Every year I-CASH has funds available for small grants to community youth groups for farm safety-related projects. In addition, I-CASH awards an Outstanding Youth Grant Award and the winners are invited to the annual Midwest Rural Agricultural Safety and Health Conference to present their project. The 2024 Outstanding Youth Grant Award went to MMCRU FFA. Students organized and implemented a farm safety day for elementary students. Using grant funds, FFA members purchased hi-vis vests to provide to all students who participated. The elementary students went through a station showing them the importance of being safe and visible around large equipment.

The message of farm safety and health can be delivered in a variety of ways. We encourage creative projects!

Here are some examples you may consider:

• Distributing ear plugs, sun screen, and healthy snacks to farmers at harvest time
• Distribute SMV (slow moving vehicle) signs at the local implement dealership, using the opportunity to talk with farmers about roadway safety
• Make a poster about hearing protection for the county fair and hand out ear plugs and brochures
• Speak with farmers while they wait in line to drop off grain at the local co-op – pass out a fact sheet about respiratory health and distribute N95 respirators.
• Produce a YouTube video about safely sorting cattle, using the funds to purchase props for demonstrations, special makeup, or editing software
• Hold a local essay or poster contest about ATV safety and give away ATV helmets to the winner.
• Develop livestock safety manuals and signs for county fair participants.

One project will be selected for the Outstanding Youth Grant Award which will be presented at the 2025 Midwest Regional Agricultural Safety and Health (MRASH) meeting usually held in mid-November. A cash award plus funding for travel and expenses to attend the meeting will be provided.

Project Description

Farming is a dangerous occupation, and Iowa has lots of farms. This grant program was developed to encourage youth to take an active role in preventing injuries and deaths on farms by raising awareness about safety and health issues with farmers and other youth in their community. The projects should be planned and conducted by youth, with adults serving as mentors and advisors.

Rural hazards come in many forms and there are many topics that can be addressed. To select a topic, start by considering the type of farming in your community, any injuries or deaths that may have happened in the past, as well as the obvious hazards such as tractors and livestock. Don’t forget about health issues such as hearing loss, sun exposure, ergonomics, and proper hydration.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

O’Brien County Community Foundation

Background

The O’Brien County Community Foundation (OBCCF) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of O’Brien County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in the county.

Mission

The mission of the O’Brien County Community Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in O’Brien County communities by encouraging permanent charitable giving to meet the needs of present and future generations.

The purpose of the OBCCF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in O’Brien County.

An Advisory Board representing each community and the varied interests of O’Brien County is responsible for governing the Foundation.

O’Brien County Community Foundation Grant

The purpose of the OBCCF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within O’Brien County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The O’Brien County Community Foundation (OBCCF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The OBCCF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in O’Brien County.

Marion County Community Foundation

A resource for building bridges from today to an enhanced quality of life tomorrow for current and future residents of Marion County.

Applicants should serve a charitable purpose by enhancing the quality of life in Marion County in areas such as: health, education, culture, religion, recreation or the enhancement and preservation of the county’s heritage.

Principles for Grant Making

• The Foundation makes grants to support creative and innovative programs, current or emerging charitable opportunities, services not presently offered and capital projects—all of which should enhance the quality of life in the county. Grants are not made in support of annual operating budgets or for projects normally included therein.
• Especially interesting are projects proposed by coalitions of service providers, those likely to gain support from matching fund arrangements, and those replicative in design.
• Projects funded should not represent significant duplication of initiatives already undertaken by other non-profit agencies.
• Requests will generally be denied for crisis intervention, current budget support, elimination of deficits, reduction of debt or funding of completed projects.
• Special attention will be given to projects that apply to broad segments of the population.
• Low priority will be given to programs or projects of churches which have a narrowly sectarian purpose. However, programs will be considered if they have ecumenical base or are designed to serve persons in need of food, clothing, shelter or counseling without regard to their religious affiliation.

Criteria to be used by the Distribution Committee

Proposals will be judged on the basis of such things as:

• The intrinsic merit of the project proposed
• The priority of the need to be met
• The ability and past experience of the staff in terms of successful completion of the projects
• The clarity and measureability of the project goals
• Plans to fund the project beyond the grant period
• The feasibility of the time frame given for completion of the project

Funding

The maximum grant request using this Simple Grant Request Form is $3,000.

Larger grant requests should use the Detailed Grant Application Form, which is available on the Foundation’s website.

The Jasper Community Foundation Purpose

The Jasper Community Foundation was established in 1997 for the purpose of accepting tax-deductible bequests and gifts in the form of cash or property from individuals, corporations and other organizations that have an interest in improving the quality of life of people residing in Jasper County, Iowa. The foundation has broad, flexible purposes assisting arts and culture, economic development, education, environment, health and human services, recreation areas and other high-impact community opportunities.

Jasper Community Foundation Grant

Each year the Jasper Community Foundation plans to make grant awards to worthwhile projects located in the County that are identified through a community grants application process. Our foundation's areas of emphasis include arts and culture, economic development, education, environment, health and human services, recreation and other community activities. Grant amounts are dependent upon the allocation of funds available to the Community Foundation each fiscal year.

Fund For Siouxland Grant

The Fund For Siouxland, an unrestricted endowment fund, provides the Community Foundation with the greatest flexibility to respond to the ever-changing needs in Siouxland communities. Contributors (individuals, families, corporations and other foundations) have made an investment in the future of Siouxland by helping to build our community’s charitable endowment. The fund is invested in accordance with the Community Foundation’s investment policy. Only the income that is generated is used to make the grants year after year.

Focus Areas

Donors to this fund, from all walks of life, recognize its importance and impact on the quality of life in Siouxland by allowing the Community Foundation to address a variety of needs in the following five focus areas: 

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to cultural and educational resources for theatre, music, arts, dance, museums.
• Civic Affairs: Community betterment, citizen participation, parks & recreation. 
• Education: Early childhood development and parental involvement, improve educational outcomes especially for those at risk, promote higher educational opportunities. 
• Health: Assist communities in the promotion and maintenance of physical and mental health. 
• Human Services: Address and serve the needs of the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The Siouxland Community Foundation does not duplicate United Way funding. However, program additions or expansions will be considered.

Funding

Foundation grants generally do not exceed $5,000.

Each year the Foundation receives many more requests than it can support, compelling the Board to make funding decisions based on the number of proposals received, worthiness of the project, relative need, and potential impact – resulting in the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

Grant Program

Variety – the Children’s Charity is a nonprofit organization that provides funding to agencies that provide care, treatment, activities, and shelter to children who are at-risk, underprivileged, critically ill, or living with special needs.  Each year, children’s nonprofits from across the state of Iowa have the opportunity to apply for grants to support program funding related to Variety’s mission of caring for children.

Grant applicants are reviewed for financial stability and each organization is interviewed by a member of Variety’s Board. This ensures a great understanding of the specific request and potential impact of investments into applicant programs.

Grant categories include:

• Acute: Agencies, primarily hospitals, that provide neonatal, pediatric and youth critical care.
• Camperships: Sponsors camps and social activities for children who are disadvantaged or critically ill and children suffering from an ongoing health condition or traumatic event in their lives.
• Convalescent: Agencies that provide residential or other services to children who suffer from severe physical, mental or emotional afflictions.
• Variety at Work: Special projects or recreational activities for special needs, critically ill, disadvantaged or at-risk children.
• Preventative: Agencies that direct children to make positive choices regarding behavior and lifestyle or that seek to raise community awareness regarding the well-being of children.
• Disadvantaged: Agencies that serve children who may lack social or educational opportunities due to poverty, environment and/or other factors.
• Transportation: Variety vans.
• Youth at Risk: Agencies that serve children who have special needs due to physical or chemical abuse, behavioral problems, or are in need of emergency shelter.

Lee County Charitable Fund Grant

The Lee County Charitable Fund Grant invests in projects that primarily facilitate cooperation, collaboration, creativity, and community organization in Lee County. This grant is designed to fund smaller projects. The Lee County Charitable Fund gives special emphasis to creative grant proposals that serve a broad sector of the community, are innovative, new and offer the greatest opportunities for positive and significant change in the communities of Lee County Iowa. All projects should serve the charitable fields of arts and culture, community betterment, education, health care and human services. 

Funding

Up to $7,500.00

Jetton Fund

The mission of the Jetton Charitable Fund is to support youth exposure to cultural education. It’s purpose is to provide the people of Omaha with assorted performing and visual arts programs, as well as a range of instructive programs grounded in natural wonders, technological advancement, and historical perspective. While the Jetton Charitable Fund supports specific traditional academic pursuits, this fund also strives to provide a more cultural edification the whole community can share and enjoy.

This grant program supports youth engagement in:

• Performing and visual arts (with a focus on performing arts)
• Educational pursuits in the areas of natural science, technologies, zoological, botanical, or historical programs.

The grant will be awarded to organizations that:

• Have been in existence as a 501(c)(3) organization for at least 5 years.
• Spend at least 75% or more of its annual operating budget on the delivery of its programs. 
• Serves the general population, rather than a subset limited by various demographic data. However, this does not preclude programs that serve youth of a particular age. 
• Serves a minimum of 1,000 students or more annually.

Application Details

Grants of $20,000 and up are awarded.

The Jetton Charitable Fund will make grants primarily to organizations in the Omaha metropolitan service area. Under special circumstances, eligibility could be extended to Lincoln, Nebraska, and to arts and educational organizations across Nebraska and Southwest Iowa. The primary purpose of such grants is programmatic with very special exceptions for capacity building.

Empowering Adair County Foundation

The Foundation was formed in 2005 to coordinate and provide philanthropic support for community betterment projects in Adair County. It serves to enhance the quality of life for the seven incorporated communities and the unincorporated areas of Adair County. The Foundation is governed by a 9-member board representing all areas of the county. The board members are community minded individuals who have assessed community needs, can implement asset development, evaluate grant applications, encourage partnerships and initiate activities to enhance the county.

The Foundation is affiliated with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines. Being affiliated with a recognized foundation was a requirement of the Endow Iowa legislation. The CFGDM oversees the investment of endowment funds and provides numerous educational opportunities for all of their affiliated foundations.

The Foundation seeks to promote endowment building, community grant making, organizational collaboration, and public leadership for the benefit of Adair County. 

Empowering Adair County Grant

Priority Areas for Funding

It is the Foundation’s intent to make grant awards to worthwhile projects located in Adair County through a grant application process. EACF’s Strategic Plan emphasizes entrepreneurial development, community development and volunteer leadership and training. In conjunction with these, foundation grants will be considered in the following 4 areas:

• Tourism/Beautification:
  • Projects may include but are not limited to marketing or promotion, an annual or special event, or a community improvement project. It is felt that by making this a priority these investments would attract more visitors to the county which would have an economic return for the community.
• Public Services:
  • Projects may include but are not limited to day cares, community centers, and public libraries. These facilities are important in attracting new residents and companies to a community which would be a good return for the Foundation’s investment. Other projects that could fall into this category include programming such as educational programs and workshops.
• Economic Well-Being:
  • This focuses on activities that would promote entrepreneurial development and support in the county and help maintain what is already in existence.
• Recreation/Entertainment/Arts/Culture:
  • Adair County has many recreational areas as well as entertainment venues. Newly held events focusing on art and entertainment have drawn much attention to the area and the community has seen the positive benefits of the publicity as well as the economic benefits of additional visitors to the area. Expanding on these successes will be a priority for the Foundation.