Staff News: Arthur Kim Named Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy

Published: December 8, 2023 | By: Drew Morton | Category:

After nearly a year of coursework through The American College of Financial Services, Development Officer Arthur Kim achieved the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy designation earlier this year. Coursework focused on family philanthropy, charitable giving strategies, and how philanthropists can work with nonprofits to enhance impact, and the experience has equipped Arthur with a range of new skills and tools to…Continue Reading


Learning for the Greater Good

Published: December 8, 2023 | By: Drew Morton | Category:

In 2019, the Community Foundation created a strategic plan to carry it through 2024. One of the key goals was to foster a culture of learning to better understand how we can serve Linn County. While the years that followed brought unpredictable challenges, the organization remained committed to reflecting and helping others learn. As the Community Foundation prepares to launch…Continue Reading

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Why Donors Partner With Us

Published: December 8, 2023 | By: Drew Morton | Category:

While establishing a charitable fund is an easy process, many who give through the Community Foundation do so with care and planning. Our Development Team works with donors and their advisors to outline philanthropic goals, establish a legacy of giving, and create a personalized plan that works for them. Michelle Beisker, Senior Vice President of Development, answered a few questions…Continue Reading

Michelle Beisker leans casually on her desk.

Food Insecurity on the Rise

Published: December 8, 2023 | By: Drew Morton | Category:

Over the last year or two, Program Officers at the Community Foundation have noted a significant increase in the number of grant applications aimed at reducing food insecurity in Linn County. As families struggle to afford basic necessities, the nonprofit organizations that serve them face new challenges—but are responding with innovation and collaboration.  The reasons behind the increase in food…Continue Reading


Chris and Suzy DeWolf Find Joy in Philanthropy

Published: December 7, 2023 | By: Drew Morton | Category:

If you asked those around Chris and Suzy DeWolf to give one word that describes the couple, there’s a good chance they might land on ‘committed.’ Over the years, Chris and Suzy have become known for their commitment to their family, community, and business. Their commitment to each other is of particular note—the two met in preschool and began dating…Continue Reading

Chris and Suzy DeWolf

Over $2.4 Million in Grants Awarded by Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation

Published: October 16, 2023 | By: Corinne Ramler | Category:

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation recently awarded $2.42 million in grants to 313 nonprofit organizations through August 31, 2023. The awards include Competitive Donor-Advised Fund grants, as well as distributions from donor-advised, designated, scholarship and agency funds. The Community Foundation works with donors and provides grants and support to nonprofits in pursuit of a vibrant and inclusive Linn County. In…Continue Reading

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Community Foundation Celebrates Nonprofit Professionals

Published: August 29, 2023 | By: Corinne Ramler | Category:

On Thursday, September 14, the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation will host the Nonprofit Party at the Market to celebrate Linn County nonprofit professionals. All nonprofit employees are invited to attend the party at NewBo City Market from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Complimentary appetizers and drinks will be served. “We’re looking forward to celebrating the work nonprofit professionals do every…Continue Reading


Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation Announces Fall 2023 Grant Cycle

Published: August 9, 2023 | By: Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation | Category:

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation announces its final grant cycle for 2023 for local charitable nonprofits. Applications will be accepted through Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. CST. The Community Foundation accepts applications from nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)(3) status, governmental organizations, and non-501(c)(3) organizations that have completed arrangements to obtain a fiscal sponsor. Grant applications can be…Continue Reading


Community Foundation Matches Gifts to Linn County Public Classrooms

Published: August 2, 2023 | By: Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation | Category:

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation announces it has once again partnered with DonorsChoose to match gifts to help fund classroom projects in Linn County, Iowa.  DonorsChoose is a nonprofit organization that makes it easy for anyone to help a classroom in need. Funding is available to support classroom education projects in Linn County public schools…Continue Reading


Small Business Loan Program, MICRO, Moves to ECICOG

Published: July 26, 2023 | By: Drew Morton | Category:

In 2015, a local couple came to the Community Foundation with an idea. Entrepreneurs themselves, they wanted to support new and growing businesses in the area through accessible loans. The idea was a seed that grew into MICRO, an award-winning program that provides low-interest loans and other resources to entrepreneurs in Cedar Rapids. MICRO was made possible by the many…Continue Reading