This collection of community foundations and boards serves to benefit nine communities in Southwest Iowa and the people who live within them, with support for arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, and historic preservation.

Below are the 2025 grant awardees:

Audubon County

The Audubon County Community Foundation awarded $42,310 to Audubon County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.  

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients:  

All grantees met the criteria as Audubon County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions that support community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Of the grants awarded, 25% supported health, 50% supported public/society benefit, 12.5% supported arts/culture/humanities, and 12.5% supported “other.” Advisory board members of the Audubon County Community Foundation are Pat Kaiser, Dr. Michelle Sprague, Doug Carter, Claire Asberry, Colton Jones, Cristie Knudesen, and Travis Nelson. 

Cass County

The Cass County Community Foundation awarded $34,796 to Cass County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.   

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients:   

 All grantees met the criteria as Cass County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Of the grants awarded, 16.7% supported human service, 5.6% supported environment/animals, 44.4% supported public/society benefit, 16.7% supported arts/culture/humanities, 11.1% supported education, and 5.6% supported other areas. Advisory board members of the Cass County Community Foundation are Kristi Burg, Sue Hunt, Mike Tibken, Sandy Bierbaum, and Jolene Sisler. 

Crawford County

The Crawford County Community Foundation awarded $12,354 to Crawford County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.   

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients:   

All grantees met the criteria as Crawford County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Among the grants awarded, approximately half funded initiatives focused on public or societal benefit, and 25% supported educational and health projects each. Advisory board members of the Crawford County Community Foundation are Maura Sailer, Corey Gaskill, Joe Ferguson, Deb Garrett, Jace Hawley, Paul Outhouse, Deb Quandt, and Peggy Staley. 

Fremont County

The Fremont County Community Foundation awarded $28,962 to Fremont County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.   

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients: 

 All grantees met the criteria as Fremont County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Of the grants awarded, 10% supported health, 60% supported public/society benefit, 20% supported human service, and 10% supported “other.” Advisory board members of the Fremont County Community Foundation are Teri Emberton, Mai Le, Stephanie Langer, Teresa Hardy, Tim Inman, Peter Johnson, and Daniel Scott. 

Harrison County

The Harrison County Community Foundation awarded $82,519 to Harrison County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.   

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients:   

 All grantees met the criteria as Harrison County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Of the grants awarded, 23.1% supported health, 53.8% supported public/society benefit, 15.4% supported human service, and 7.7% supported education. Advisory board members of the Harrison County Community Foundation are Lori Thomsen, Kerry Stueve, Todd Noah, Mitchell Flaherty, Matt Fouts, Jeff Kuhl, and Ashley West. 

Mills County

The Mills County Community Foundation awarded $154,496 to Mills County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.   

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients:   

 All grantees met the criteria as Mills County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Of the grants awarded, 30% supported public/society benefit, 10% supported education, 30% supported human service, 10% supported health, 10% supported arts/culture/humanities, and 10% supported “other.” Advisory board members of the Mills County Community Foundation are Kate McGann, Mary Bolton, Jim Schoening, Curtis Frazee, Larry Lauridsen, and Brent VonEssen. 

Montgomery County

The Montgomery County Community Foundation awarded $29,006 to Montgomery County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.   

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients:   

 All grantees met the criteria as Montgomery County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Of the grants awarded, 45.5% supported public/society benefit, 9.1% supported education, 18.2% supported arts/culture/humanities, 9.1% supported human service, 18.2% supported health, and 9.1% supported “other.” Advisory board members of the Montgomery County Community Foundation are Jenna Ramsey, Brian LeRette, Marty Barnett, Dennis Bloom, Alex Burton, Christine Johnson, Jason Orme, Allen Pohren, and Chris Tischer. 

Page County

The Page County Community Foundation awarded $20,719 to Page County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.   

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients:   

 All grantees met the criteria as Page County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Of the grants awarded, 75% supported human service and 25% supported public/society benefit. Advisory board members of the Page County Community Foundation are Mark Walter, Pam Herzberg, Zeb Burkheiser, and Amy McQueen. 

Shelby County

The Shelby County Community Foundation awarded $39,531 to Shelby County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2025 grant cycle.   

The following organizations are Fall 2025 grant recipients:   

 All grantees met the criteria as Shelby County nonprofit agencies or organizations with charitable missions supporting community needs in the areas of civic engagement, culture, health, education, and social services. Of the grants awarded, 62.5% supported human service, 12.5% supported education, 25% supported public/society benefit, and 12.5% supported health. Advisory board members of the Shelby County Community Foundation are Max Powers, Jodee Dixon, Daniel Fischer, Jill Mages, Jill Schaben, and Rich Wiig. 

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For information about donating or establishing an individual foundation/fund, please contact Sunni Kamp (sunni@omahafoundation.org) or Sydney Calcagno (sydney@omahafoundation.org) at 800-794-3458.  

The post More Than $400,000 granted to Southwest Iowa Community Projects appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

From historic preservation and public safety to early childhood care and community development, this year’s funded projects reflect a continued investment in the future of Southwest Iowa. 

“We continue to be inspired by the passion and commitment of local leaders in each county,” said Sunni Kamp, Southwest Iowa Foundations Director, which provides administrative support to the nine-county network of community foundations. “Their care and knowledge guide every grant cycle—and together, we’re funding projects that bring lasting improvements to the people and places of Southwest Iowa.” 

The Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa are supported by the Iowa County Endowment Fund Program, which allocates a portion of the state’s commercial gaming tax revenue to counties without a state-issued gaming license. Each affiliate is guided by a local advisory board made up of residents who understand their community’s needs and opportunities. These board members review applications, prioritize projects, and ultimately decide how funds are distributed. 

That local insight is at the heart of each funding decision—and it’s one reason the program has had such a broad and lasting impact. 

“Throughout the years, we’ve been able to fund a wide array of projects and programs,” said Kristi Burg, Foundation Advisory Committee representative. “Grants have been awarded to support a variety of recreational opportunities and building renovations, as well as many more projects that will have a positive effect on our community members—both young and old—for years to come. We’re proud of the impact of the Foundation, and we’re glad to have the opportunity to help make our communities and county better.” 

2025 Spring Grant Recipients by County 

Audubon County
Total Awarded: $144,709 | Grants: 8 

• Audubon County Hospital Foundation – $14,760 
• Audubon County Agricultural Society – $10,000 
• Audubon Recreation Foundation – $10,000 
• City of Exira (3 grants supporting the Exira Community Club, Exira Public Library, and the City) – $44,355 
• Brayton Fire Department – $24,108 
• Friendship Home Foundation – $41,486

Cass County
Total Awarded: $144,710 | Grants: 14 

• Vision Atlantic Inc. – $25,000 
• Cass County Coalition for Mental Wellness – $12,800 
• American Legion Post 508 – $24,270 
• Cass County Historical Society – $10,000 
• 309 Club, Inc. – $8,000 
• LC Clinic – $8,000 
• Massena Childcare – $10,592 
• Griswold Volunteer Fire Association Inc. – $3,512 
• Cass County Conservation Board – $6,000 
• Friends of Anita Public Library – $9,000 
• Anita Health & Wellness Center. – $10,913 
• City of Griswold (2 grants supporting Griswold Fire & Rescue, and the City) – $8,623 
• Nishna Valley Family YMCA – $8,000 

Crawford County
Total Awarded: $144,675 | Grants: 12 

• City of West side (2 grants supporting the Westside Public Library and the City) – $43,500 
• City of Manilla (2 grants supporting the Manilla Fire Department and the Memorial Hall Project Committee) – $15,319 
• City of Vail Park Foundation – $40,000 
• Charter Oak Fire Department – $5,000 
• Schleswig Enterprise – $6,500 
• Aspinwall Community Club – $3,500 
• Friends of the Dow House, Inc. – $5,000 
• Children’s Imagination Station – $3,000 
• Crawford County Hunger Fighters – $4,500 
• City of Dow City – $18,356

Fremont County
Total Awarded: $144,709 | Grants: 12 

• Sidney Volunteer Fire & Rescue – $35,000 
• Tabor Hometown Pride – $23,395 
• George C. Grape Community Hospital – $11,071 
• Fremont County Fair Board – $12,710 
• Riverton Fire & Rescue – $16,000 
• Sidney Iowa Community Fitness – $8,140 
• City of Farragut (2 grants supporting Farragut Community Hometown Pride and the City) – $10,248 
• Wabash Trace Nature Trail – $16,750 
• Friends of Waubonsie State Park – $3,500 
• Nishna Productions, Inc. – $4,000 
• Sidney Youth Sports – $3,895

Harrison County
Total Awarded: $144,681 | Grants: 14 

• The CREW Center – $15,000 
• Dunlap Betterment Group (2 grants) – $29,000 
• City of Persia – $17,000 
• City of Mondamin – $9,747 
• Harrison County Humane Society – $3,580 
• Woodbine Community Foundation – $7,976 
• Loess Hills Youth Shooting Sports – $14,580 
• Friends of Missouri Valley Dog Park – $2,050 
• Pisgah Reach Out Group – $9,867 
• Harrison County Conservation Board – $13,381 
• Trivium Life Services – $10,000   
• Woodbine Main Street – $10,000 
• Woodbine Saddle Club – $2,500

Mills County
Total Awarded: $144,680 | Grants: 16 

• Jennie Edmundson Memorial Hospital Foundation – $20,000 
• Southwest Iowa Technical Career Hub – $20,000 
• Glenwood Wrestling Club – $10,950 
• Emerson Improvement Organization – $12,500 
• Mills County Fair Association – $6,781 
• St. John Lutheran Church – $6,670 
• Glen Haven Home – $5,500 
• City of Glenwood (3 grants supporting Glenwood Fire Department, Glenwood Police Department, and the city) – $20,852 
• City of Emerson – $3,712 
• Silvery City Ambulance – $3,838 
• City of Malvern – $14,177 
• Oak Township Fire and Rescue – $6,500 
• Nishna Productions, Inc. – $3,700 
• Wabash Trace Nature Trail – $9,500 

Montgomery County
Total Awarded: $144,705 | Grants: 15 

• Red Oak Grand Theatre – $20,000 
• Stanton Historical Society – $15,000 
• Stanton Community Foundation – $10,000 
• Wilson Performing Arts Center – $10,000 
• Montgomery County Child Development Association – $20,000 
• Villisca EMS Association – $4,205 
• Villisca Public Library – $4,000 
• City of Red Oak – $4,500 
• JVAA – $26,000 
• Stanton Child Resource Center – $5,000 
• Red Oak Heritage Foundation – $3,500 
• City of Villisca – $5,000 
• Nishna Productions – $10,000 
• Montgomery Agricultural Society – $2,500 
• Montgomery County Conservation Foundation – $5,000

Page County
Total Awarded: $144,701 | Grants: 10 

• Page County Sherriff’s Reserve – $5,400 
• Wabash Trace Nature Trail – $20,000 
• Page County Board of Supervisors – $51,000 
• Essex Community School District – $26,599 
• Turnbull Child Development Center – $12,000 
• Grandma’s House Day Care – $5,450 
• Clarinda Fire Department – $10,600 
• Shenandoah Fire Department – $5,500 
• Nishna Productions, Inc.  – $5,000 
• Shanendoah Medical Center – $3,152

Shelby County
Total Awarded: $144,705 | Grants: 16 

• City of Irwin (2 grants supporting the Iriwin Fire and Rescue Association and the City) – $29,793 
• City of Elk Horn – $17,500 
• Westphalia Volunteer Fire Department – $14,912 
• Earling Fire and Rescue – $14,050 
• Shelby County EMS Association – $9,500 
• Shelby Fire & Rescue – $6,250 
• Shelby County Conservation Board – $5,500 
• Museum of Danish America – $5,000 
• Danish Windmill Corporation – $5,500 
• Concerned, Inc. – $2,000 
• Harlan Community Library Foundation – $12,000 
• Kids in the Village – $7,000 
• Shelby County Community Outreach – $4,200 
• Shelby County Fair Association – $8,000 
• Shelby County Historical Society – $3,500

Grants awarded through the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa continue to improve the quality of life in our region. From supporting emergency responders to enhancing parks and community spaces, each grant tells a story of progress and partnership. 

Visit swiowafoundations.org to explore past recipients and learn more about future grant opportunities in your county. 

The post The Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa award more than $1.3 million to 120 orgs appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

But here’s the truth: the opportunity to protect and grow that generosity for future generations is right in front of us.

That’s why I’m inviting you to consider a powerful idea: what if each of us committed just 5% of our estate to our local community?

This is the heart of the 5 for the Future campaign. It’s a simple, intentional way to ensure that what you’ve built in your lifetime continues to support the people and places you love, long after you’re gone.

Why It Matters

Iowa is experiencing a major shift. Family assets—farmland, small businesses, retirement savings—are being passed on to the next generation. But often, that generation no longer lives here. Without thoughtful planning, much of that wealth will leave our towns and counties altogether. 

Over the next 50 years, an estimated $100 billion will transfer between generations in Iowa. If just 5% of that were committed to community endowments, it could create $5 billion to support local causes forever. Keeping some of this wealth in Iowa can ensure a strong future for our communities.

When people think about giving back, they often picture large, one-time donations. But I’ve seen how a consistent, long-term investment—even just five percent—can sustain the services and organizations that keep our communities strong. If a family with $1 million in assets gave 5% ($50,000) to a local community foundation, that endowment could generate around $2,000–$3,000 per year forever (depending on the investment returns and spending policy)—funding critical community needs year after year.

I’ve had conversations with individuals from all walks of life who want to give back, but aren’t sure where to start. That’s where we come in. At the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa, we walk alongside you—and your financial advisor—to build a plan that reflects your values and creates lasting community impact.

How to Start Your 5% Conversation

Leaving a legacy doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s what works:

• Start a conversation with your family about what matters most to you.
  
• Talk with your financial advisor or attorney about your estate plans and potential giving opportunities.
  
• Reach out to me or our team—we’ll listen, guide you, and help identify local funds and causes that align with your hopes for the future.
  
• And if you’re eligible, your gift may qualify for the Endow Iowa Tax Credit, which offers additional tax advantages.
  

Let’s Make Sure What Matters to You Lasts

This isn’t just about charitable giving—it’s about planting the seeds of generosity so they continue to grow in the places we all call home. I believe in the future of Southwest Iowa, and I believe that by each of us committing just 5%, we can shape that future together.

If you’re ready to talk, I’m here. Let’s explore what your legacy could look like—and what 5% could do for your community.

The post A Simple Way to Leave a Lasting Legacy appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority has announced a proposal that includes eliminating the Endow Iowa tax credit program. If approved, money currently appropriated for the Endow Iowa program will be re-appropriated to increase the Workforce Housing tax credit in 2026.  

Since the inception of the Endow Iowa tax credit program in 2004, Iowa community foundations have leveraged more than $435 million in permanent endowment fund gifts to support Iowa communities, nonprofits and charitable causes. The contributions were made through more than 53,000 donations benefiting each of Iowa’s 99 counties.  

Iowa’s community foundations are joining together to celebrate the success of this program by sharing stories of local impact. The Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa serve to benefit Audubon, Cass, Crawford, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Montgomery, Page and Shelby Counties. 

ABOUT THE PROGRAM 

For Sunni Kamp, Director of the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa, it was hard to pick just one story that highlights the import work being done in Southwest Iowa thanks to Endow Iowa. Last year alone $1.4 million was distributed to support Iowa communities, making towns across the state feel more like home with funding for Little League programs, park improvements, veterans organizations, libraries, childcare services, community celebrations, genealogy projects, lifesaving equipment for fire departments, senior programming, and more have left a mark in our communities.  

“The Endow Iowa program has been a game-changer for our communities in Southwest Iowa,” Kamp said. “Thanks to the generosity of local donors and the power of endowed funds, we’re seeing lasting impacts in our region—funding everything from education initiatives to historic preservation. These dollars stay local, ensuring our communities continue to thrive for generations to come.”  

The Endow Iowa tax credit program is utilized by a wide range of donors, including individuals, businesses and financial institutions, with most donations being $1,000 or less. These dollars will continue to grow in endowment funds in perpetuity, improving lives for Iowans both now and for years to come. Last year alone, Endow Iowa funds at Iowa community foundations provided $32.2 million to nonprofit organizations and charitable causes across the state.  

“Just over two decades ago, our state leaders had the foresight to recognize the potential of Endow Iowa as a tool to support our communities and to keep wealth from leaving our state. Endow Iowa tax credits have created a win-win-win for donors, communities and nonprofit organizations in Iowa. The impacts of this program can be seen in communities all across our state.” said Kari McCann Boutell, President of the Iowa Council of Foundations. 

The credit is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to donors who make a gift to a permanent endowment fund established for the benefit of Iowa charitable causes at a qualified community foundation in Iowa. Qualified community foundations are accredited through the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations.  

BROAD BENEFITS  

Endow Iowa has several benefits, but the primary goal of the program is to keep charitable dollars in the state. When the program began, legislators were watching the early stages of a generational transfer of wealth across the state, looking for ways to keep the money in Iowa communities. Twenty years later, that transfer continues to present a tremendous opportunity for Iowans. “Transfer of Wealth Opportunity State of Iowa,” a recent study commissioned by the Iowa Council of Foundations (ICoF), estimates that more than $30.4 billion in Iowa assets will change hands in the next 10 years with the passing of older residents. Over 40 years, the figure swells to $128 billion. If heirs and successors live out of state, those assets—from agricultural land to stock dividends—may leave the community where they were generated. Endow Iowa incentivizes donors to invest those resources right here in Iowa.  

The program is administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority in collaboration with the Iowa Council of Foundations. The ICoF is a statewide membership association of foundations and grantmaking organizations across Iowa. The ICoF’s mission is to strengthen, guide and grow philanthropy in Iowa.  

To learn more about Endow Iowa or connect with your local community foundation, please visit IowaCommunityFoundations.org. 

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More about the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa: The Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa serve to benefit the communities and residents of nine counties: Audubon, Cass, Crawford, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Montgomery, Page and Shelby Counties. The Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa receive funds each year from the State of Iowa County Endowment Fund Program. These funds are distributed via grants to support the needs and opportunities in the areas of arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, and historic preservation. 

The post The Endow Iowa Advantage Keeps Wealth in the State  appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

The “Gathering for Good” events aim to strengthen community ties and showcase the impact of philanthropy throughout the region. Register for the event at swiowafoundations.org. Attendees can expect to: 

• Build Connections: Meet and engage with Community Foundation staff and board members from Audubon, Crawford, Harrison, Shelby, Cass, Fremont, Mills, Montgomery, and Page counties. 

• Celebrate Community Impact: Honor the leaders and nonprofits making a difference through projects funded by the Community Foundations in 2024. 

• Learn How to Support Local Foundations: Discover how you can contribute to your Community Foundation’s endowment fund and support future grantmaking initiatives. 

Regional Event Details: 

December 3rd, 8-10 a.m. at the C.G. Therkildsen Center, Harlan: For Audubon, Crawford, Harrison, and Shelby County Community Foundations 

Register for the Dec. 3 event

December 5th, 8-10 a.m. at 518 Gallery, Red Oak: For Cass, Fremont, Mills, Montgomery, and Page County Community Foundations 

Register for the Dec. 5 event

The post Join us at our “Gathering for Good” events in Southwest Iowa appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

These grants aim to improve each county’s quality of life by supporting needs and opportunities in the areas of arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, and historic preservation.

This grant cycle was made possible through the State of Iowa County Endowment Fund Program and is funded by a percentage of the state’s commercial gaming tax revenue, which is distributed annually to participating community foundations associated with counties without a state-issued gaming license.

Read the full report here.

Below are the 2024 grant awardees:

Audubon County

The Audubon County Community Foundation awarded $143,342 to Audubon County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:  

Advisory board members of the Audubon County Community Foundation are Pat Kaiser, Gina Benton, Megan Wagner, Dr. Bob Blomme, Travis Nelson, Donna Olson, and Doug Carter.  

Cass County

The Cass County Community Foundation awarded $145,696.77 to Cass County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:  

Advisory board members of the Cass County Community Foundation are Kristi Burg, Gaylord Schelling, Sue Hunt, Sandy Bierbaum, Justin D. Hockenberry, and Mike Tibken. 

Crawford County

The Crawford County Community Foundation awarded $141,535 to Crawford County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:  

Advisory board members of the Crawford County Community Foundation are Kelly Sonnichsen, Maura Sailer, Steve Vollstedt, Steve Brownmiller, Deb Garrett, Jace Hawley, Paul Outhouse, Deb Quandt, and Sarah Weinbrandt. 

Fremont County

The Fremont County Community Foundation awarded $97,773 to Fremont County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:  

Advisory board members of the Fremont County Community Foundation are Darynn Ruiz, Teri Emberton, Staci Shearer, Teresa Hardy, Tim Inman, and Mai Le. 

Harrison County

The Harrison County Community Foundation awarded $143,314 to Harrison County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:  

Advisory board members of the Harrison County Community Foundation are Barb Oliver, Lori Thomsen, Kerry Stueve, Gordon Fliehe, Todd Noah, Noel Sherer, and Ashley West. 

Mills County

The Mills County Community Foundation awarded $143,313 to Mills County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:  

Advisory board members of the Mills County Community Foundation are Jennifer Gee, Kate McGann, Keith Johnson, Mary Bolton, Jim Schoening, and Brent VonEssen. 

Montgomery County

The Montgomery County Community Foundation awarded $143,337 to Montgomery County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:  

Advisory board members of the Montgomery County Community Foundation are Kevin Britten, Kim Robinson, Brian LeRette, Marty Barnett, Dennis D. Bloom, Tammie Bodwell, Christine Johnson, Jenna Ramsey, and John Tischer. 

Page County

The Page County Community Foundation awarded $143,333.59 to Page County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:  

Advisory board members of the Page County Community Foundation are Mark Walter, Brian Steinkuehler, Pam Herzberg, Marlene Bashaw, Scott Brown, and Zeb Burkheiser. 

Shelby County

The Shelby County Community Foundation awarded $141,531 to Shelby County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Spring 2024 Grant Cycle.  

The following organizations are Spring 2024 Grant Recipients:   

Advisory board members of the Shelby County Community Foundation are Brock Darling, Michael Riley, Max Powers, Jodee Dixon, Leona Konz, and Jill Mages. 

Read the full report here.

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For information about donating or establishing an individual foundation/fund, please contact Sunni Kamp (sunni@omahafoundation.org) or Sydney Calcagno (sydney@omahafoundation.org) at 800-794-3458.  

The post More than a million dollars granted to Southwest Iowa community projects appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

For Juanita, her parents greatly influenced her approach to charitable giving and helped her develop her philanthropic focus areas.

Developing philanthropic goals through family history

When Juanita’s mother, Marjorie, was a young girl in Birch Tree, Missouri, her Grandma Cherry would visit and help when a new child was born into the family. During those visits, Grandma Cherry used the same spoon to feed both herself and her grandchildren. Unfortunately, Grandma Cherry had tuberculosis, more commonly known as “consumption” at the time, and this simple act of sharing a spoon passed along the disease to Marjorie and her siblings.

Luckily, Marjorie recovered at the TB Sanitorium in Norton, Kansas and lived a healthy life, but her experience with tuberculosis left a lasting impression. She recorded the story of her family’s battle with tuberculosis, which was compiled into a memoir and educational book called “Grandma Cherry’s Spoon.”

Her experience with tuberculosis and living a life shadowed by the disease made both Majorie and Juanita’s father, John, passionate about supporting local health programs and health education. They were strong supporters of the Audubon County Memorial Hospital Foundation.  Four years after her father’s death and when Marjorie was in her final days, Juanita promised that she would carry on her parents’ work in those areas.

Juanita’s father also influenced the charitable causes she supports. He was truly a steward of the land, and he passed his deep love of nature on to Juanita.  He was proud to be the second registered Tree Farmer in the State of Iowa and could boast he had the largest Buckeye tree in the state.

As a child, Juanita spent a lot of her time in nature. Her parents owned land and a cabin in Guthrie County, and Juanita has many fond memories of her time on this property — playing in the mud, hunting for bugs, and watching her dad make modeling clay from the red clay soil. Juanita’s parents donated these 55 acres known as Sutcliffe Woodland to the Guthrie County Conservation Board to be used for environmental education and as a wildlife refuge.  When her father first saw the sign that the Guthrie County Conservation put up, he said that was better than any tombstone he could wish for.  With their love of the land, Juanita spread both of her parents’ ashes among the pine trees on the hill as requested by her parents.  The family planted 2000 pines on that hill in the 1950’s and their survival were the pride of her parents.

Memorializing a family legacy through charitable giving

After her parents passed away, Juanita wanted to set up a charitable fund to memorialize their work in the community. While she was exploring different options, she discovered the complexities of setting up her own 501(c)(3) charitable organization. A local attorney suggested she explore setting up a fund through the Audubon County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Omaha Community Foundation.

After connecting with the Community Foundation, Juanita realized that setting up a fund with them was an easy and effective method of giving to honor her parents and would allow her to quickly begin granting funds out into the community.

“The ease of the process is the best part of working with the Community Foundation,” Juanita said.

Through her fund, she supports organizations that focus on health education and environmental conservation. She has developed relationships with several organizations over the years and has set up a succession plan to ensure these organizations will receive continued funding upon her passing.

When asked what legacy she hopes to leave behind, Juanita said: “In the end, my goal is to make things better for others.”

“You don’t have to do something big to make a change,” Juanita said. “You can start with the simplest gesture of kindness and goodwill.”

Opening a Donor Advised Fund

Partnering with the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa on a Donor Advised Fund will help you to maximize your community impact. Your contributions accrue interest, which will allow you to provide additional support to causes important to you.

“You don’t need millions of dollars to make an impact,” Juanita said.

The Community Foundation simplifies the charitable giving process by handling your paperwork and serving as a personal giving resource. There are a variety of fund options for individuals and families who want to start making an impact in their community today.

In addition to the Audubon County Community Foundation, the Omaha Community Foundation supports affiliates in Cass, Crawford, Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Montgomery, Page and Shelby counties. We also support fundholders across Southwest Iowa who want to make an impact in their own communities.

Contact the Community Foundation’s Southwest Iowa team today to discuss your philanthropic goals at (402) 342-3458 or visit swiowafoundations.org.

The post Reynard honors her parents’ legacy by supporting conservation and health education  appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

This collection of community foundations and boards serves to benefit nine communities in Southwest Iowa and the people who live within them, with support for arts and culture, education, environment, health, human services, and historic preservation.

Below are the 2023 grant awardees:

Audubon County

The Audubon County Community Foundation awarded $42,343 to Audubon County nonprofit organizations and community projects. Including these most recent grants, the Foundation has distributed more than $2.8 million in grants and scholarships over the past 25 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:

Advisory board members of the Audubon County Community Foundation are Chair Pat Kaiser of Audubon; Vice Chair Gina Benton of Exira; Secretary/Treasurer Megan Wagner of Audubon; Bob Blomme of Audubon; Travis Nelson of Exira; Donna Olson of Kimballton, and Doug Carter of Audubon.

Cass County

The Cass County Community Foundation awarded $29,940 to local nonprofits and projects. Including these most recent grants, the Foundation has distributed more than $2.6 million in grants and scholarships over the past 25 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:

Advisory board members of the Cass County Community Foundation are Chair Kristi Burg of Massena; Vice Chair Gaylord Schelling of Atlantic; Secretary/Treasurer Sue Hunt of Atlantic; Sandy Bierbaum of Griswold; Justin D. Hockenberry of Anita; and Mike Tibken of Anita.

Crawford County

The Crawford County Community Foundation awarded $11,050 to Crawford County programs during its Fall 2023 Grant Cycle. Including these most recent grants, the  Foundation has distributed more than $1.9 million in grants and scholarships over the past 18 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:

Advisory board members of the Crawford County Community Foundation are Steve Brownmiller, Deb Garrett, Jace Hawley, Paul Outhouse, Maura Sailer, Kelly Sonnichsen, Deb Quandt, Steve Vollstedt, Sarah Weinbrand.

Fremont County

The Fremont County Community Foundation awarded $24,240 to Fremont County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2023 Grant Cycle. Including these most recent grants, the Foundation has distributed more than $2.5 million in grants and scholarships over the past 25 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:

Advisory board members of the Fremont County Community Foundation are Chair Darynn Ruiz of Sidney; Vice Chair Teri Emberton of Hamburg; Secretary/Treasurer Staci Shearer of Farragut; Teresa Hardy of Randolph; Tim Inman of Randolph; and Mai Le of Thurman. 

Harrison County

The Harrison County Community Foundation awarded $73,940 to Harrison County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2023 Grant Cycle. Including these most recent grants, the Foundation has distributed more than $3.9 million in grants and scholarships over the past 26 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:  

Board members of the Harrison County Community Foundation are Chair Barb Oliver of Logan; Vice Chair Lori Thomsen of Dunlap; Secretary/Treasurer Kerry Stueve of Missouri Valley; Gordon Fliehe of Logan; Todd Noah of Moorhead; Noel Sherer of Woodbine, and Ashley West of Missouri Valley.

Mills County

The Mills County Community Foundation awarded $137,310 to Mills County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2023 Grant Cycle. With these grants, the Foundation has distributed more than $6.1 million in grants and scholarships over the past 26 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:

Advisory board members of the Mills County Community Foundation are Chair Jennifer Gee of Imogene; Vice Chair Kate McGann of Malvern; Secretary/Treasurer Keith Johnson of Mineola; Jim Schoening of Silver City; Mary Bolton of Emerson; and Brent VonEssen of Glenwood.

Montgomery County

The Montgomery County Community Foundation, working in partnership with the Red Oak Heritage Foundation, awarded $26,040 to Montgomery County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2023 Grant Cycle. Including these most recent grants, the Foundation has distributed more than $2.4 million in grants and scholarships over the past 26 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:

Advisory board members of the Montgomery County Community Foundation are Chair Kevin Britten of Red Oak; Vice Chair Kim Robinson of Red Oak; Secretary/Treasurer Brian LeRette of Red Oak; Marty Barnett of Red Oak; Dennis D. Bloom of Red Oak; Tammie Bodwell of Villisca; Christine Johnson of Red Oak; Jenna Ramsey of Stanton; and John Tischer of Elliott.

Page County

The Page County Community Foundation, working in partnership with the Clarinda Foundation and the Greater Shenandoah Foundation awarded $18,230 to Page County community projects and local municipalities. Including these most recent grants, the Foundation has distributed more than $2.3 million in grants and scholarships over the past 18 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:

The Page County Community Foundation Advisory Board Members are Marlene Bashaw, Scott Brown, Zeb Burkheiser, Pam Herzberg, Brian Steinkuehler, and Mark Walter.

Shelby County

The Shelby County Community Foundation awarded $34,255 to Shelby County nonprofit organizations and community projects during its Fall 2023 Grant Cycle. Including these most recent grants, the Foundation has distributed more than $3.9 million in grants and scholarships over the past 26 years. Below are the fall 2023 grant recipients:   

Advisory board members of the Shelby County Community Foundation are Chair Brock Darling of Irwin; Vice Chair Michael Riley of Harlan; Secretary/Treasurer Max Powers of Defiance; Jodee Dixon of Elk Horn; Leona Konz of Shelby, and Jill Mages of Westphalia. 

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For information about donating or establishing an individual foundation/fund, please contact Sunni Kamp (sunni@omahafoundation.org) or Sydney Calcagno (sydney@omahafoundation.org) at 800-794-3458.  

The post Nearly $400,000 granted to Southwest Iowa Community Projects appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

Audubon 

Applications for the Fall 2023 grant cycle will be accepted from July 15 through September 1 and must be submitted via the online grant portal. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on September 1. 

As part of this fall grant cycle, $45,420 is available to support Audubon County nonprofit organizations and community projects. The deadline to apply for funds through the online application process is September 1.  

Of the total allocated funds, $2,375 is restricted to the Exira area, $5,060 is designated for the community of Audubon, and $37,985 is available to support projects throughout the county.  

For Fall 2023, the Audubon County Community Foundation will entertain requests for capital and program support. General operating support will only be considered for extenuating, non-recurring circumstances. 

Before beginning, please download and review the Grant Program Fact Sheet here (updated July 2022), which includes eligibility requirements, FAQs, and application instructions. 

Cass 

Applications for the Fall 2023 grant cycle will be accepted from July 15 through September 1 and must be submitted via the online grant portal. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on September 1. 

As part of this fall grant cycle, $29,940 is available to support Cass County nonprofit organizations and community projects. Of the total allocated funds, $4,000 is restricted to the community of Griswold, and $25,940 is available to support projects throughout the county.  

For Fall 2023, the Cass County Community Foundation will entertain requests for capital and program support. General operating support will not be considered. 

Before beginning, please download and review the Grant Program Fact Sheet here (updated July 2022), which includes eligibility requirements, FAQs, and application instructions. 

Fremont 

Applications for the Fall 2023 grant cycle will be accepted from July 15 through September 1 and must be submitted via the online grant portal. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on September 1. 

As part of this fall grant cycle, $25,770 is available to support Fremont County nonprofit organizations and community projects. Of the total available funds, $730 is restricted to the community of Farragut, $2,320 is designated to the community of Hamburg (which includes $635 exclusively for arts projects in Hamburg), $895 is restricted to the community of Percival, $970 is allocated to the community of Randolph, $935 is designated to the community of Sidney, $435 is allotted for the community of Tabor, and $18,850 is available to support projects throughout the county.  

For Fall 2023, the Fremont County Community Foundation will entertain requests for capital and program support. General operating support will only be considered for extenuating, non-recurring circumstances. 

Before beginning, please download and review the Grant Program Fact Sheet here (updated July 2022), which includes eligibility requirements, FAQs, and application instructions. 

Harrison 

Applications for the Fall 2023 grant cycle will be accepted from July 15 through September 1 and must be submitted via the online grant portal. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on September 1. 

As part of this fall grant cycle, $73,940 is available to support Harrison County nonprofit organizations and community projects. Of the total funds, $7,110 is restricted to the community of Missouri Valley, $1,765 is designated to the community of Pisgah, $4,175 is allocated to the community of Woodbine, $2,115 is available for charitable purposes in northern Harrison County, and $44,710 will support projects throughout the county, which includes $14,065 for projects focused on wildlife parks, conservation, and other outdoor recreation.  

For Fall 2023, the Harrison County Community Foundation will entertain requests for capital and program support. General operating support will only be considered for extenuating, non-recurring circumstances. 

Before beginning, please download and review the Grant Program Fact Sheet here (updated July 2022), which includes eligibility requirements, FAQs, and application instructions. 

Mills 

Applications for the Fall 2023 grant cycle will be accepted from July 15 through September 1 and must be submitted via the online grant portal. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on September 1. 

As part of this fall grant cycle, $137,310 is available to support Mills County nonprofit organizations and community projects. Of the total available funds, $106,475 is restricted to the Malvern area from the William L. Costello Endowed Fund, and $30,835 is available to support projects throughout the county.  

For Fall 2023, the Mills County Community Foundation will entertain requests for capital and program support. General operating support will only be considered for extenuating, non-recurring circumstances. 

Before beginning, please download and review the Grant Program Fact Sheet here (updated July 2022), which includes eligibility requirements, FAQs, and application instructions. 

Montgomery 

Applications for the Fall 2023 grant cycle will be accepted from July 15 through September 1 and must be submitted via the online grant portal. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on September 1. 

As part of this fall grant cycle, $27,395 is available to support Montgomery County nonprofit organizations and community projects. Of the total funds, $940 is restricted to the community of Stanton, $2,070 is allocated to the Villisca area, which includes $1,355 for projects at Villisca Community Schools, and $23,030 is available to support projects throughout the county.  

For Fall 2023, the Montgomery County Community Foundation will entertain requests for capital and program support. Requests for general operating support will not be considered. 

Before beginning, please download and review the Grant Program Fact Sheet here (updated July 2022), which includes eligibility requirements, FAQs, and application instructions. 

Shelby 

Applications for the Fall 2022 grant cycle will be accepted from July 15 through September 1 and must be submitted via the online grant portal. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. CST on September 1. 

As part of this fall grant cycle, $35,525 is available to support Shelby County nonprofit organizations and community projects. Of the total funds, $1,340 is restricted to Harlan, $1,270 is allocated to the community of Shelby, and $32,915 is available to support projects throughout the county.  

For Fall 2023, the Shelby County Community Foundation will entertain requests for capital and program support. Requests for general operating support will not be considered. 

Before beginning, please download and review the Grant Program Fact Sheet here (updated July 2022), which includes eligibility requirements, FAQs, and application instructions. 

The post Applications now open for seven Southwest Iowa counties appeared first on Omaha Community Foundation.

The Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa understands that childcare is an essential service in our rural communities, and now is a crucial time to fund these organizations. In the past year and a half, the Foundation granted nearly $275,000 to support childcare. Funded projects included building improvements, educational materials, equipment, and more.

“One of the most valuable attributes of a community foundation is its ability to be responsive to issues that are affecting our local communities,” said Southwest Iowa Foundations Director Sunni Kamp. “Each of our nine foundations has its own local advisory board, and because of this approach to our work, the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa has both the localized support and philanthropic knowledge to be a funding leader on the most prominent issues across our region.”

We reached out to nonprofit organizations providing childcare throughout our network to hear what challenges they currently face. There are three main areas in which Southwest Iowa childcare providers experience obstacles, including meeting demand, covering operating costs, and recruiting and retaining staff.

Meeting the Demand for Childcare

According to the Center for American Progress, 23% of Iowa residents live in a childcare desert. Childcare availability is even lower among rural populations, with 35% of rural families living in areas without enough licensed childcare providers.  In the nine-county network of the Community Foundations of Southwest Iowa, each of our counties has a census tract that is considered a childcare desert.

To increase available childcare spots, many communities are seeking out opportunities to expand existing facilities or open new childcare centers.

In Mills County, there is a shortfall of over 1,700 childcare slots.  In July 2022, Mills County parents, businesses, education leaders, and nonprofits formed East Mills Child Care Solutions to address the inadequate childcare options in the East Mills Community School District. Since then, the group has elected a board, facilitated a community needs survey, purchased a property to house a new childcare center, and begun fundraising for the Lakin Foundation Child Development Center of East Mills.

In Montgomery County, the Stanton Child Resource Center is the only organization offering childcare services in the Stanton area.  With many families on the center’s waitlist, the organization launched a capital campaign to construct a new facility. The new center will increase its capacity by 49 spaces and is expected to open in the early summer of 2024.

Childcare is crucial for the health of Southwest Iowa, and communities will need to keep exploring avenues for creating more childcare spots in rural towns.

Covering Operating Costs

Childcare centers continue to juggle providing their services at an affordable rate while paying inflated material costs and competitive wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer price index, the dollar has had an average inflation rate of over 5.5% per year since 2020, producing a cumulative price increase of over 17%. Most families across Southwest Iowa are not able to afford a 17% increase in childcare prices, which leaves providers with the difficult task of finding funding elsewhere.

Many childcare providers are nonprofit organizations, which means they rely on grant funding and public support to make up the difference in their budgets. Generally, organizations seeking funding have an easier time fundraising for tangible requests such as furniture and fixtures and have difficulty raising money for the essential costs of salaries, training, and other operational costs. If organizations are to continue to provide affordable childcare throughout Southwest Iowa, it is necessary for all funders to support the general operating costs of childcare centers.

Recruiting and Retaining Staff

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2022, the average annual wage of childcare workers in Iowa was $21,240. Lower wages in the childcare industry make it difficult for providers to attract and retain workers.  In Shelby County, Kids in the Village has supplemented their staff by hiring high school and college students to work after school hours and in the summer, but staffing a childcare center can be difficult to do year-round and during peak work hours of 6:00 am – 6:00 pm.

Additionally, training staff is very important, and is a required component of licensing by the Iowa Department of Human Services. But training staff can prove challenging, as it costs organizations both time and money. General support of childcare centers can provide the much-needed funding for increased wages and access to training.

Support Southwest Childcare

Even though these organizations face a myriad of challenges in today’s childcare landscape, they continue to do tremendous work. Childcare centers across Southwest Iowa in the past few years have celebrated the successes of facility expansions and improvements, grant funding for a variety of projects, phenomenal community and parental support, and staff who go above and beyond every day to care for our children.

If you are interested in supporting a Southwest Iowa childcare organization, please review the list of organizations below that have provided us with notes on their current funding needs or consider a general donation to support operating costs.

The Children’s Nest
Audubon, IA

• Employees: 8
• Children Served: 28
• Current Funding Needs: Salary support.
• Website: https://www.audubonchildrensnest.com

Kids in the Village
Elk Horn, IA

• Employees: 15
• Children Served: 56
• Current Funding Needs: Operational support, staff training, countertops, and cabinet replacements.
• Website: https://www.kidsitv.com/

Lakin Foundation Child Development Center of East Mills
Malvern, IA

• Timeline: Projected to open Fall 2024
• Projected Children Served: 150
• Current Funding Needs: Capital campaign for $5 million to renovate and furnish existing building in Malvern, IA.
• Contact: emchildcaresolutions@gmail.com 

Little Hawks Childcare Center
Manilla, IA

• Employees: 15
• Children Served: 62
• Current Funding Needs: Shading for playground, furnishings for preschool room, preschool curriculum.
• Website:https://www.facebook.com/people/Little-Hawks-Childcare-Center/

Red Oak Child Development Center
Red Oak, IA

• Employees: 35
• Children Served: 145
• Current Funding Needs: Educational technology, furnishings, funds for staff retention efforts.
• Website: https://www.redoakcdc.org/

Stanton Child Resource Center
Stanton, IA

• Employees: 21
• Children Served: 114
• Current Funding Needs: Capital campaign for construction of new facility – $1 million away from final goal.
• Website: https://www.scrckids.com/

Turnbull Child Development Center
Shenandoah, IA

• Employees: 30
• Children Served: 182
• Current Funding Needs: Cosmetic updates to building including paint, carpet, tile, and playground.
• Website: https://www.turnbullcdc.com/index.html

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