Safer Homes Ahead: $3 Million Secured for Lead Hazard Removal
Late last year, the East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) brought regional groups together to apply for a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The joint effort has resulted in nearly $3 million to help low- and middle-income homes address hazardous lead levels. Until they were banned in the 1970’s and 80’s, lead-based paint and plumbing supplies were widely…Continue Reading
Meeting the Moment: How the Greater Good Fund Strengthens Linn County
One of the Community Foundation’s greatest strengths lies in its ability to respond to community needs and opportunities as they change. This work is made possible by the Greater Good Fund, which helps nonprofits meet our community’s evolving and unanticipated needs – today and for generations to come. At its heart, the Greater Good Fund is an unrestricted fund that empowers the Community Foundation to strengthen Linn County with flexibility and foresight. Over…Continue Reading
Revolving Loan Fund: A New Support for Linn County Nonprofits
Early this year, the Community Foundation launched a Revolving Loan Fund for local nonprofit organizations. The fund will be administered by the East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) and will provide low-interest loans of $2,500 – $25,000 to nonprofits headquartered and operating in Linn County. “At the Community Foundation, we strive to listen to the needs of the organizations serving our community,” said Joe…Continue Reading
Greater Connection Event Showcases Arts Education
On December 9, community members gathered at the Eastern Iowa Arts Academy for Greater Connections: Reimagining Arts Education. This new series of events, launched in 2025, offers a chance for philanthropists to hear from local nonprofits and leaders. Events are designed to bring donors closer to the community’s needs and opportunities. “Much of our arts and cultural experiences come to use through nonprofits,” President…Continue Reading
New Board Members and 2026 Officers
2026 Board Officers Nancy Hill, Chair Mercy Medical Center Matthew Van Maanen, Chair-Elect Aegon/Transamerica Janice Kerkove, Treasurer Bradley & Riley PC Cathy Terukina, Secretary Community Volunteer Michelle Niermann, Past Chair Community Volunteer New Board Members Ben Isaacson Growthland Amanda Lane TDT CPAs and Advisors Alejandro Pino YPN Kristen Wilcox Attorney
Community Foundation Welcomes New Staff Members
In recent months, several new faces have joined the Community Foundation. Welcome to the team! Cameron Jacobs Accounting Clerk Melissa Pence, CFRE, MSL Director of Development Blenda Peterson Development Services Associate Rachel Schneider Donor Relations Associate
Endowment Challenge Grants Provide Stability for Nonprofits
Last fall, the Community Foundation awarded Endowment Challenge Grants to three local nonprofits. Each grant provides $1 for every $3 the nonprofit raises, up to $25,000 – resulting in a $100,000 endowed fund. Endowed funds grow over time and make annual distributions, providing nonprofits with a permanent source of income. Gifts to Endowment Challenge Funds can be made directly to…Continue Reading
UnCharitable Sparks Community Conversation
On December 1, the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation’s Nonprofit Network and the United Way of East Central Iowa hosted three free screenings of UnCharitable at an early #GivingTuesday event. The documentary poses tough questions about philanthropy and how we support nonprofit organizations. “For our nonprofits to fulfill their missions and to change the world, we need to focus on their results, and stop looking so heavily at overhead,” said Brad Hart, local attorney and…Continue Reading
Nonprofit Know-How Events Provide Learning, Resources, and Connections
Over 100 nonprofit professionals have gathered for three Nonprofit Know-How events since December 2025. These fast, free and focused learning opportunities cover timely topics for nonprofit staff and leaders. In December, participants explored the value and impact of collaborations. In January, they learned about how the Community Foundation can support their organizations. Earlier this month, nonprofit professionals came together again to dive into budgeting and finance essentials. Each session is designed to provide meaningful connections, practical resources, and access to subject matter experts. On March 11, 2026, more than 60…Continue Reading
Play, Parks, and Possibility: Philanthropy at Work in Recreation
The nonprofit sector is often associated with the social safety net it provides when people and communities face challenges. But the sector connects us to more than basic needs and arts and culture. Often overlooked is the vital role nonprofits play in connecting us to outdoor recreation opportunities. From sports leagues and youth camps to conservation efforts and environmental education, nonprofits build, enhance, and maintain much of our local recreation infrastructure. Even government projects like parks and trails often receive significant philanthropic…Continue Reading
