Leaving It Better:
That’s the legacy that motivates us. That’s the mission that guides us.
The Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation was established as a family foundation in 1993 by the late Claude W. Ahrens. Mr. Ahrens enjoyed a long, successful business career in the playground and agricultural manufacturing fields and desired to return some of the fruits of his labor, particularly to his native Grinnell, Iowa area, with specific support to his special interest in parks and recreation. Claude W. Ahrens has truly set a philanthropic example to all.
The Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation continues its active commitment to improving the quality of life for our Grinnell community. We are dedicated to providing innovative charitable programs and support to local community projects and needs.
Latest News
Grinnell School of Music Receives $40,000 Gift to Create the Roger & Lisa Henderson Teacher Workspace
February 14, 2024 The Claude W. Ahrens Charitable Trust, Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation, and the Michael and Susan Witt Foundation have pledged a combined $40,000 to the Grinnell School of Music to create [...]
SHE Counts plans events surrounding Women’s History Month
February 13th, 2024 S.H.E. Counts (Supporting Helping Empowering Women) and the Brooklyn Opera House are kicking off Women’s History Month with an International Women’s Day event on March 1. The event is being held [...]
Thank you to 100 People Who Care Grinnell!
February 9th, 2024 At last nights meeting, 100+ People Who Care Grinnell was able to present a Big Check to Jennifer Cogley with the Poweshiek Housing Assistance Fund, the organization supported at its October meeting. [...]
Thank you to these GHS Students and Grinnell College for grant to help support new dog park at Ahrens Park
January 21, 2024 Featuring one of Grinnell College’s Fall 2023 Mini-Grant Recipients: Enhancing Education, Parks, and Fire Safety in the Grinnell area. Picture shows from L.to R., GHS teacher Kevin Hosbond, Ahrens Park Foundation [...]
Annual Report 2023 FYE/Catalog for Giving
Thank you for giving and supporting our community. Click the image below to view the Catalog of Giving.
Partner Program Funds
The Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation also serves as an umbrella organization and financial manager for many local community and county programs. Please click the image below to learn more about the local partner programs we serve and how you can support their program funds.