Search Through Health and Wellness Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa in the U.S.

About The Foundation

The Change Happens Foundation is dedicated to allocating our resources to charitable activities and programs that are aligned with our pillars and fall within our budgetary constraints. Organizations whose projects do not satisfy our eligibility standards or match to our focus areas are encouraged not to proceed with an LOI. For those seeking foundations with interests aligned to their work, the Foundation Center offers a valuable resource—a searchable database designed to assist nonprofits in identifying potential funding opportunities.

The Change Happens Foundation is dedicated to supporting charitable activities that align with our pillars areas, strictly adhering to the guidelines of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and Treasury Regulations. We are committed to the effective use of our grants, which are monitored through comprehensive financial and performance reporting by our grantees.

Our Pillars

Environmental Science

Systemic Change

Fostering a future where innovation intersects with environmental stewardship, we are committed to strategically investing in forward-thinking programs that catalyze systemic and sustainable solutions. Our dedication lies in addressing and overcoming the critical environmental challenges that confront our planet. Through these targeted investments, we aim not just to contribute, but to set in motion a ripple effect of change, driving progress towards a healthier, more resilient, and greener world for generations to come.

Education

Creating Opportunities

At the heart of our mission is a steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a strong focus on early education and STEM learning. We are dedicated to empowering women and underrepresented communities, breaking down barriers to education and access in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics from the earliest stages of learning. By fostering opportunities that ignite curiosity, fuel aspirations, and open doors, we are laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and innovation. Our investment in these communities is an investment in a future where transformative change is not only envisioned but realized, shaping a society that celebrates diversity, practices equity, and embraces inclusion at every level.

Human Services

Nutrition & Support

Our approach to combatting food insecurity and bolstering community health is rooted in thoughtful and strategic funding initiatives that delve deep into the underlying causes of these pervasive issues. We are unwavering in our commitment to support and scale up programs that do more than just provide – they empower. By ensuring access to wholesome, nutritious food and comprehensive healthcare services, we are actively bridging gaps for those in dire need. Our mission transcends mere assistance; it's about nurturing a robust infrastructure that fosters long-term resilience and well-being, affirming our belief that everyone deserves the fundamental right to health and nutrition.

HealthConnect: create opportunities and reduce social barriers to ensure healthy development for our community’s most vulnerable children and youth.

What Drives Health Outcomes

Various populations experience significant disparities across health outcomes. This means that factors outside of individual choice influence someone’s well-being. 

SOCIAL DRIVERS OF HEALTH – also known as the social determinants of health – Social, economic, and environmental policies, systems, and structures that impact a person’s health and well-being. These drivers of health determine how long and how well people live.

Examples of the social determinants of health include: 

• Housing quality and stability
• Food quality and security
• Family & community connections 
• Quality education
• Neighborhood safety
• Physical and mental health care
• Quality and stable employment

Economic health and well-being is the foundation driving all other health outcomes.

Our systems consist of policies, practices, and norms that shape people’s access to good health and well-being. Throughout history, these systems have been created to advantage some and disadvantage others.

As a result, there are communities that have historically, and continue to, lack resources and opportunities to achieve strong economic health and well-being. The inability to live healthy lives has multi-generational impacts, causing regional challenges that are costly to address.

How We Respond

Mid-Iowa Health Foundation maximizes its philanthropic approach to address the social drivers of health in the following ways:

• Investing in initiatives that seek measurable improvements in health outcomes through programs and policies impacting central Iowans.
• Collaborating across sectors on issues that support greater economic stability among underresourced central Iowa populations.
• Influencing the local philanthropic landscape, including the types of initiatives funders collaborate on, to focus their contributions on root cause issues.

Since its inception, the Foundation, which is still led by Lester T. Sunderland's descendants, has focused on supporting construction projects, awarding grants to nonprofits in the Kansas City region and other markets traditionally served by the Ash Grove Cement Company. 

 The Foundation prefers to make grants for construction and special interest projects rather than for annual operating expenses. 

Grants for planning, design, construction, renovation, repairs and restoration of facilities are considered. Areas of interest include higher education, youth serving agencies, health facilities, community buildings, museums, civic projects and energy efficient affordable housing projects sponsored by qualified tax-exempt organizations. 

Funding Areas

In recent grant cycles, the Board of Trustees has awarded the majority of grants in four broadly defined areas:

Higher Education

In 2022, the Foundation awarded $49 million to more than 35 educational organizations. Grantees included community colleges, private colleges, and public universities.

Human Services

The Foundation awarded $30 million to human service nonprofits in 2022, and many grants in this area went to groups that provide essential services to youth and families. Grantees included a range of youth-focused groups, including Reconciliation Services, the Nebraska Youth Justice Initiative in Omaha, Nebraska and the Sno-Valley Senior Center in Carnation, Washington. 

Arts and Culture

Arts and culture projects received $23 million in 2022, including grants to the Springfield Art Museum in Springfield, Missouri, the Omaha Zoo and the Seattle Aquarium in Seattle, Washington. Health Care and Hospitals.

Health Care and Hospitals

This is a growing area of need in many communities the Foundation serves. In 2022, $65 million was awarded to hospitals and health-care groups to build and improve their facilities.

About Arts Midwest

We amplify Midwestern creativity, building community and opportunity across our region and beyond.

Arts Midwest advances creativity across our region, building unprecedented opportunity for everyone who calls this place home. We support, inform, and celebrate arts organizations and creative communities in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, the Native Nations that share this geography, and beyond. As one of six nonprofit United States Regional Arts Organizations, we work to strengthen local arts and culture efforts in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, state agencies, private funders, and many others. Together, we nourish the creative roots of the Midwest—and share our region’s transformative ideas with the world.

This year, we’re pleased to offer two tracks of funding: GIG Fund: Arts and Wellness, and GIG Fund.

GIG Fund: Arts and Wellness

The GIG Fund: Arts and Wellness is a grant of $2,000 – $15,000 for organizations of any budget size whose projects have an arts and wellness focus.  Funds may be used for performances, workshops, programs in clinical settings, creative aging programs, efforts that engage veterans in the arts, etc.  Applicants may only apply for one GIG Fund grant per year.

Arts Midwest recognizes the field of arts and wellness to be far-reaching and applicants should identify how their arts project addresses some element of health and wellness.

This round of GIG Fund grants is for supporting activities taking place between December 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026. There are three requirements.

1) Engage a Professional Artist or Ensemble 2) Offer at Least Two Activities Featuring the Artist(s) and 3) Professional Development: With support from The Hearst Foundations, Arts Midwest will offer professional development opportunities to grantees to strengthen arts and wellness initiatives across the Midwest.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. We connect inspired people to causes they care about most, make grants to strengthen effective nonprofits, and provide leadership on key community issues to make Iowa communities better places. Since 1956, we have been “here for good,” working side-by-side people and organizations as a catalyst for positive community change. Today, CFNEIA works in 20 Iowa counties to meet local needs and fulfill a vision of creating a vibrant region of thriving people. 

Butler County Grants

Grants selections are made in an effort to create a better quality of life for people in Butler County. A local governing committee reviews the applications from charitable organizations serving their community.

What We Support

The Butler County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Butler County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county.

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

The Butler County Community Foundation gives priority to projects that:

• Address vital services/needs within the county.
• Encourage additional funding through matching income from other grants, private donors, and in-kind donations.
• Show substantial number of people served.
• Provide detailed budget specific to project and include quotes/bids for expenses.

About the Fayette County Community Foundation

The Fayette County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Fayette County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Fayette County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Fayette County

What We Support

Grants are made to programs that contribute, in a significant way, to the overall welfare of the people of Fayette County. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are: 

• Art and culture
• Community betterment
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Services

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. We connect inspired people to causes they care about most, make grants to strengthen effective nonprofits, and provide leadership on key community issues to make Iowa communities better places. Since 1956, we have been “here for good,” working side-by-side people and organizations as a catalyst for positive community change. Today, CFNEIA works in 20 Iowa counties to meet local needs and fulfill a vision of creating a vibrant region of thriving people. 

Kossuth County Grants

The Kossuth County Community Foundation (KCCF), an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Kossuth County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Kossuth County and to attract additional funds by assisting donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Kossuth County

What We Support

The Kossuth County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Kossuth County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. 

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

• The extent to which the proposal addresses a community need, demonstrates broad-based community support, and provides benefits to the community-at-large.
• The level of support or leveraged funding from other sources.
• Maximization of community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and the elimination of redundant services, programs, or projects.
• The capacity of the applicant’s organization and staff to achieve the desired result and/or projects that focus on the growth of the organization.
• The sustainability of the proposed project.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. 

 Since 1956, we have been a catalyst for transformational change by investing in nonprofit organizations and helping donors meet the needs of their communities. We are a trusted partner and leader when help is needed in developing key community solutions. Today, CFNEIA carries out its mission in 20 Iowa counties to create equitable places where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The Floyd County Community Foundation

The Floyd County Community Foundation (FCCF), an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of Floyd County. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for the people of Floyd County by helping donors carry out their charitable intent and by providing responsible stewardship of gifts for community purposes. 

What We Support

The Floyd County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Floyd County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. 

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Jones County Community Foundation grants to projects benefitting persons residing in Jones County, Iowa. Our priorities are to improve economic well-being or quality of life, improve educational opportunities, address community capital improvements, maintain and improve the health of Jones County residents, promote Jones County tourism and recreation, maintain Jones County heritage, and/or support conservation efforts.

Maximum grant request amount that will be considered is $25,000.00

Grant Considerations:

• Does this project effectively serve a community need or problem?
• What is the overall impact of the project?
• Is the project collaborative and partnering with other local groups/agencies? Does the project build on or avoid duplicating the services of other agencies?
• Are the project goals and outcomes clear and measurable? What is the return on investment?
• Does this project meet the funding interests of the JCCF?
• Is the project budget realistic and thoughtfully completed? Does the project hit the required match amount?

About Us

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation is an independent, 501(c)3 public charity that enables people with philanthropic interests to support causes they care about in Fort Dodge, Webster County, and North Central Iowa. The Fort Dodge Community Foundation creates long-term assets and makes grants to better our community and improve its quality of life.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation develops lasting legacies for community-minded citizens through funds that are designed to support the charitable goals of donors. From these funds, grants are made in support of a wide range of charitable causes and non-profit organizations that address a broad scope of current and long-term community needs and community betterment opportunities.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation is a unique philanthropic organization. In July 2007, the United Way of Greater Fort Dodge and the Community Foundation of Fort Dodge and North Central Iowa merged into one philanthropic organization. Merging the two organizations provided the opportunity to leverage administrative resources and reduce duplication in philanthropy. This collaborative model is the first of its kind in the nation and offers our community and region a "one-stop-shop," for community-based charitable giving.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation makes a constant effort to stay ahead of emerging issues in our community and county. We work in partnership with civic, business, nonprofit and government leaders to identify and address important community needs and opportunities that will enhance the quality of life in our community and region.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation meets the National Standards established by the Council on Foundations for U.S. Community Foundations, which are philanthropy’s most rigorous standards. Community foundations that meet these standards have demonstrated that they abide by the highest legal, ethical and effective operating practices, financial oversight, transparency and accountability.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation works hard to earn the trust and respect of our community so it can effectively serve as the entity in Fort Dodge/Webster County for community-based philanthropic giving. We encourage citizens to invest in their community through the annual United Way community campaign and by establishing endowment and donor advised funds for the purpose of investing in the future vitality, growth and development of our community.

County Endowment Funding Grant

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation is an independent 501(c) (3) public charity that enables people with philanthropic interests to develop lasting legacies through funds that support causes, programs and organizations in their community that they care about, easily and effectively. Serving Fort Dodge, Webster County and Northwest-Central Iowa, the Fort Dodge Community Foundation makes grants from these funds to a wide-range of charitable causes and non-profit organizations to address a wide-range of current and future community needs.

As an advocate and catalyst for charitable giving, the Fort Dodge Community Foundation develops charitable resources to support important community programs, services, projects and nonprofit organizations to advance the public good, foster economic prosperity and improve the quality of life of all citizens, families and youth.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation serves as an asset development organization that provides positive and proactive leadership and significant resources to help the Fort Dodge community and region become a place where people will want to live, work, recreate, and raise their families.

These grants are provided to charitable organizations to support projects that are considered charitable and are focused on improving quality of life in Iowa communities.

The County Endowment Fund is a state-funded program that provides financial assistance to a large number of Community Foundations or Community Affiliate Organizations around the state to support projects that are considered charitable and are focused on improving quality of life in Iowa communities. The dollars distributed in this program come from state's gaming tax revenues and are available on a yearly basis. Qualified community foundations that meet national standards for community foundations or a community affiliate organization that has affiliated with such a foundation administer these funds for their counties.

As a vehicle for community-based philanthropy, the Foundation is dedicated to using its chartable resources in the most efficient and effective ways by making grants back to our community and county that address four key principles:

• Enriching the quality of life of all citizens, family and youth;
• Supporting the common good;
• Enhancing economic vitality;
• Advancing community betterment.

Iowa Farm Bureau is proud to provide support for events and fundraisers through sponsorships and donations in the State of Iowa.

Our Giving Priorities

Agriculture – Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is committed to supporting the long-term viability of agriculture, entrepreneurs and rural communities across the state of Iowa. We support programs and organizations that understand and contribute to the value of Iowa agriculture and its future.

Farm Families and their Communities – As a grassroots organization, our sustainability is in our membership, and our goal is to develop and engage the best agricultural leaders across Iowa. We contribute to programs and initiatives that invest in and emphasize support for our member farmers and their families to lead a growing and prosperous Iowa.

Youth and Education – In an effort to create opportunities to develop individuals with great character, a strong work ethic and exceptional leadership skills, Iowa Farm Bureau embraces organizations that prepare the next generation of agricultural innovators.

Health and Wellness – Promoting quality health care and healthy lifestyles is a priority as we continue to protect the livelihood and futures in the communities we serve. Our goal is to give back to organizations that protect and prepare our communities for an enduring future.

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.

Black Hawk County Grants

Community Impact Grants are awarded throughout Black Hawk County from the unrestricted funds designated to improving the county. The CFNEIA distribution committee awards grants to create impact that addresses community and county needs.

Areas of Focus

The Community Foundation provides eligible agencies one-year discretionary grants on a competitive basis to improve life for residents of Black Hawk County, Iowa. Requests can be for operations, programming, materials, equipment, and capital projects. Areas of support are in the following program areas:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Education & Youth Development
• Health
• Human service

Grant Amounts

The majority of our competitive grants range from $5,000 to $25,000. Applicants interested in applying for more than the range are encouraged to contact Program Director prior to applying.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. We connect inspired people to causes they care about most, make grants to strengthen effective nonprofits, and provide leadership on key community issues to make Iowa communities better places. Since 1956, we have been “here for good,” working side-by-side people and organizations as a catalyst for positive community change. Today, CFNEIA works in 20 Iowa counties to meet local needs and fulfill a vision of creating a vibrant region of thriving people. 

Franklin County Grants

The Franklin County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Franklin County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Franklin County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Franklin County.

What We Support

The Franklin County Community Foundation will provide grants to improve life in Franklin County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. 

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

In addition, the Franklin County Community prefers to fund projects that:

• Utilize local vendors and contractors when possible
• Are specific projects that enhance the work of nonprofit groups
• Can be completed within the grant period
• Demonstrate multiple sources of income for the project
• Are sustainable without ongoing support from the FCCF

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. We connect inspired people to causes they care about most, make grants to strengthen effective nonprofits, and provide leadership on key community issues to make Iowa communities better places. Since 1956, we have been “here for good,” working side-by-side people and organizations as a catalyst for positive community change. Today, CFNEIA works in 20 Iowa counties to meet local needs and fulfill a vision of creating a vibrant region of thriving people. 

Tama County Grants

The Tama County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Tama County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Tama County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Tama County.

What We Support

The Tama County Community Foundation will provide grants to improve life in Tama County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county.

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

• Requests that show multiple funding sources for project will be given higher priority by the Tama County Community Foundation.
• Requests that include salaries and/or labor will be given lower priority by the Tama County Community Foundation.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. We connect inspired people to causes they care about most, make grants to strengthen effective nonprofits, and provide leadership on key community issues to make Iowa communities better places. Since 1956, we have been “here for good,” working side-by-side people and organizations as a catalyst for positive community change. Today, CFNEIA works in 20 Iowa counties to meet local needs and fulfill a vision of creating a vibrant region of thriving people.

Winneshiek County Grants

The Winneshiek County Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of Winneshiek County. The Foundation’s mission is to strengthen Winneshiek County communities by encouraging charitable giving to create legacies for the future. We offer world-class donor services and wise investing. Our grants are designed to act as a catalyst for community transformation and growth, enriching the lives of all area citizens.

What We Support

The Winneshiek County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Winneshiek County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. 

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

The WCCF is focused on providing grants that create an impact within Winneshiek County. Therefore, the following priorities are emphasized during grant review and decision making:

• Projects that address important needs in the county
• Requests that have secured/sought additional funding, including matching gifts and in-kind donations
• Requests that provide realistic plans for continuation funds (if applicable) from other sources
• Projects that yield substantial benefits to the county for the resources invested
• Projects that are new, innovative, and have not been previously funded

The Foundation began as a focused way to affect positive change for children in poverty. The Foundation’s  values are the result of lessons learned from a rural upbringing and lifestyle where commitment to community, neighbor and family, and satisfaction in a job done well are held in high regard.

Mission

To encourage and multiply opportunities for children in poverty

Priorities

The Foundation will create, mentor and sustain projects such as, but not limited to:

• Impactful programs which support children in poverty
• Partnership programs with schools & organizations fostering job skill fundamentals of the Building Construction Trades

Value Statement

The Foundation focuses on practical applications, programs and projects specific to Human Health, Community Well-Being, and Education. The Foundation will seek partnerships which create access to  programs and improvements changing the lives of children living within the confines of poverty.

We believe that together, we are stronger and when we live and act through support, we can create a culture of generosity and love. 

Since 2015, the Immanuel Vision Foundation has provided financial support to nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organizations whose missions align with our own. More specifically, those that:

“Meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of seniors, respond to needs in community health and support the ministry of the Church.”

The Immanuel Vision Foundation seeks to support organizations that:

• Demonstrate strong leadership, financial stability and consistent planning.
• Implement innovation and catalytic opportunity.
• Clearly define objectives and strategic plans.
• Have developed additional, reliable sources of funding for the project requested.

Special consideration will be given to the following priority areas:

Seniors - The Immanuel Vision Foundation supports programs and initiatives that embody Immanuel's vision that "All people will grow and age with dignity, safety, and wellness." Immanuel's expertise in the health and well-being of seniors, identified as the post-65 age population, makes this a particular priority area for IVF funding.

Community Health - Community Health, as envisioned by the Immanuel Vision Foundation, pertains to targeted initiatives to optimize the health and well-being of individuals and families residing in our communities. It revolves around proactive measures, interventions, and partnerships that tackle specific health issues while nurturing a culture of wellness. Our approach encompasses a spectrum of programs and services designed to prevent and address health challenges, fostering physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, all within the framework of our commitment to supporting our community's vitality. While we recognize the interconnectedness of social determinants, our primary focus is on strategic efforts addressing pressing health concerns, ensuring our communities can thrive in optimal health.

The Church - Grants in this area support qualifying ELCA congregations that reflect a commitment to faith-based service to others. This priority area is funded through the ELCA Congregation grant cycle.

Awareness. Education. Prevention.  These are three key tenets of Bayer Fund’s investments in health and wellness.  With a focus on cancer and cardiovascular disease, we provide resources to organizations dedicated to educating and/or providing services to patients, caregivers and at-risk populations.

Health & Wellness Grants

Programs that Bayer Fund will support include those that focus on patients and their families needing assistance with issues to managing cardiovascular disease and cancer. This includes education, disease awareness, and supportive services for these diseases. In areas related to cardiovascular disease, priority (though not exclusivity) will be given to charitable organizations that focus on programs and support for the African American community due to the high incidence rate of disease in this population.

Giving in this category will focus on support services such as education, disease awareness, and general access to care (e.g., housing for families traveling for cancer or heart care).

All funding requests and budgets must be for program activities and expenses that start after funding decisions are made. All programs must be completed within one year of the start date, except in limited situations where longer term programs have been agreed upon. Grant award amounts vary, depending on the size of the community, the type of programming, and the reach of the organization.

Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

The Carleen and Eugene Grandon Charitable Foundation was established in 2004 by Carleen M. Grandon. However, its genesis began years before with many philanthropic gifts to various organizations during the 1980’s and 1990’s. These gifts primarily focused on cultural, healthcare and educational endeavors by organizations located in the Greater Cedar Rapids, Iowa area. During this time, Carleen Grandon was active on various boards of charitable organizations and developed a deep sense of improving the community through charitable giving. Since its inception, the Foundation has focused its giving to programmatic endeavors as opposed to building programs. While building projects have a place, the Foundation believes funding of programs provides more direct benefit to the individuals being served by the funded organizations.  

Carleen and Eugene Grandon Charitable Foundation Grant

The Carleen and Eugene Grandon Charitable Foundation provides grants to support qualified nonprofit organizations that align with the Foundation's funding interests in the following area:

• Cultural Arts

Mrs. Grandon possessed an enthusiasm for the cultural arts; she found joy in music and theatre, in particular through opera, singing and the piano. The Foundation continues to honor Mrs. Grandon's passion by providing grants to charitable organizations for programs that seek to promote such endeavors within the Greater Cedar Rapids Community.

• Education

The Grandons were lifelong learners and teachers who had a profound understanding of the importance of education for individuals, families and the larger community to thrive. The Foundation continues these efforts through grants to charitable organizations with programs that seek to provide educational support to individuals within the Greater Cedar Rapids Community so they may reach their full potential.

• Health and Wellness

As a physician and a nurse, Dr. and Mrs. Grandon devoted much of their time and talents in careers that serve others by improving the health and wellness of individuals within the Community. The Foundation similarly provides grants to charitable organizations in the Community for programs that continue this tradition of service to improve the health and wellness of individuals in need within the Greater Cedar Rapids Community.

The Foundation provides grants that support programs, rather than building projects. This limitation is based on Dr. and Mrs. Grandon's firm belief that funding programs provide the greatest and most direct benefit to individuals served by the non-profit organizations. 

Bremer County Community Foundation

The Bremer County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Bremer County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Bremer County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Bremer County. The Readlyn Community Fund is a component fund within the Bremer County Community Foundation. The fund has been set up to support projects in Readlyn.

What We Fund

The Bremer County Community Foundation (BCCF) and the Readlyn Community Fund (RCF) committees provide grants to improve life throughout Bremer County, Iowa, as well as in Readlyn specifically. We want to help develop all our communities into places where people want to live, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

Funding Priorities

Our top priority is to fund nonprofits most affected by and/or dealing with the Coronavirus outbreak. Applicants are encouraged to apply for general operating support instead of project-based proposals. 

Beyond that, highest priority for funding is given to projects that:

• Address a community need, demonstrate broad-based community support, and provide benefits that are community/county wide. 
• Show a high level of support or leveraged (match) funding from other sources.
• Maximize community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and work to eliminate redundant services, programs, or projects. 
• Show long-term sustainability of the project without annual grant support from the BCCF.

The Buchanan County Community Foundation

The Buchanan County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of Buchanan County. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for the people of Buchanan County by helping donors carry out their charitable intent and by providing responsible stewardship of gifts for community purposes.

What We Support

The Buchanan County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Buchanan County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

About the Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation

The Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of Cerro Gordo County. The vision of the Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation is to be a premier philanthropic program enhancing and impacting the lives of the residents of Cerro Gordo County through donor opportunities, endowment growth and management, and responsible and local grant distribution.

What We Fund

The Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation will provide grants to improve life in Cerro Gordo County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. We connect inspired people to causes they care about most, make grants to strengthen effective nonprofits, and provide leadership on key community issues to make Iowa communities better places. Since 1956, we have been “here for good,” working side-by-side people and organizations as a catalyst for positive community change. Today, CFNEIA works in 20 Iowa counties to meet local needs and fulfill a vision of creating a vibrant region of thriving people. 

Emmet County Grants

The Emmet County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Emmet County. The Foundation’s mission is to strengthen Emmet County communities by encouraging charitable giving to create legacies for the future. Our grants are designed to act as a catalyst for community transformation and growth, enriching the lives of area citizens.

What We Support

The Emmet County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Emmet County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. 

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

• High Priority is given to volunteer projects and/or those that have matching funds from other sources.
• Organization with offices outside of Emmet County should show how the project will benefit county residents.
• Maximize community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and work to eliminate redundant services, programs, or projects.

The Iowa County Community Foundation

The Iowa County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Iowa County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Iowa County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options.

What We Fund

The Iowa County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Iowa County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

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.

Purpose

The purpose of the Operations and Program Grant program (formerly known as the Coordinated Field of Interest Grant program) is to provide general operating support or program support for successful ongoing efforts. General operating support is crucial to the long-term success of nonprofit organizations. This grant program aligns with the Community Foundation’s strategic effort to use effective grantmaking practices including:

Flexible Funding: requests for general operating support are eligible for funding, and are given preference.

Reliable Funding: One-year or Two-year requests will be considered.

Nonprofit organizations may apply for a grant from several different Community Foundation funds through the Operations and Program Grant program. To save time and effort, applicants submit one application and are considered for multiple funding sources.

The Operations and Program Grant program continues to follow the original purposes of each fund and the intent set up by its donors. All specific fund purposes fall into one or more fields of interest: Animals & Environment; Arts & Culture; Community Development; Education; Health; and Youth Development.

Fund Focus Areas:

• Amy Helpenstell Foundation Fund - General Operating and Program requests only.
• Basic Human Needs—Iowa
• Chip Sunderbruch Memorial Risk Management Fund: Focuses on risk management and safety
• Children at Risk Fund: Focuses on youth programs.
• Health & Wellness Fund: Focuses on health and wellness.
• John J. Quail Fund: Focuses on arts and culture.
• Judith Berger Endowment: Focuses on education, poverty & children in need.
• Nell C. Brennan Fund: Focuses on educational opportunities for underserved children.
• Roy E. Murray Fund: Focuses on youth.
• Sekharan Family Fund: Focuses on hospice and homelessness.