Greater Connection: Inspiring New Ways of Working Together
The Community Foundation launched the Greater Connection events in 2025 to bring friends and supporters closer to the most pressing needs and exciting opportunities in our community. These events allow for meaningful, first-hand insight by showcasing local nonprofits and hearing from local leaders who are making a difference.
Past Greater Connection Events
Reducing Homelessness in Linn County
May 12, 2026, Waypoint Services
In response to a strained housing system, community partners formed collaborative groups such as PACS, Coordinated Street Outreach, and the Alliance for Equitable Housing to streamline rental assistance, reduce duplication, and improve data tracking. As a result, homelessness in Linn County has dropped 47% since 2021, even as national rates rise.
This event highlighted how local organizations are working to meet this challenge head-on. A panel discussed recent data, our community’s collaborative approach, and how we’re making progress and developing long-term housing solutions. Click below to view the report shared at the event.
Reimagining Arts Education
December 9, 2025, Eastern Iowa Arts Academy
The Eastern Iowa Arts Academy’s expansion into the former Arthur Elementary School marks a bold new chapter in arts education. This historic building has been transformed into a dynamic community arts hub—one that offers space and inspiration to fuel creativity for all ages. The move was driven by growing demand and a belief that the arts should be central—not peripheral—to how we learn, connect, and thrive.
This event highlighted the Academy’s vision of what arts education can be: collaborative, inclusive, and deeply rooted in community.
Reducing Food Insecurity
September 24, 2025, HACAP Food Reservoir
Local food pantries have seen record levels of food insecurity across Linn County—driven by economic pressures, rising costs, and shifts in federal and state funding.
With potential changes to federal programs like SNAP and Medicaid on the horizon, many anticipate increased pressure on our community-based programs already stretched thin. This event highlighted how local organizations are working to meet this challenge head-on. Attendees heard how nonprofits are working to provide dignified support to our neighbors in need and gained insight into their vision for addressing food insecurity in the years to come.
