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.

Our Mission

We are a unique and innovative family foundation striving to help meet the needs of the Greater Grinnell community through ongoing support services and resources by maintaining and perpetuating an endowment. Our purpose is to provide improved and enhanced quality of life for present and future generations with interest in the areas of parks & recreation, education, and health with our collaborative partners.

Our Vision

To enhance the quality of life for future generations in the Grinnell community and its neighboring communities.

Our Values

Collaboration, Compassion, Innovation, Integrity, Respect, and Wellness.

Latest News

Park Facility Rentals

April 13, 2024 Exciting News! Did you know that you can now book our facility reservations online through the Grinnell Park and Recreation website? Whether you're planning a birthday party at the Ahrens Family [...]

Imagine Grinnell Announces Spring Tree Distribution

April 9, 2024 As part of its mission to keep Grinnell vibrant and enhancing sustainability, Imagine Grinnell will host a free tree distribution in May for residents living in the 50112 zip code who have [...]

2nd Annual Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt Held at Ahrens Park

April 1, 2024 In case you missed it, Ahrens Park and Grinnell Parks and Recreation hosted the 2nd Annual Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt on Friday, March 29th. 270 kids were registered for the event [...]

Recycle your electronics on April 20th

March 29, 2024 Have you started spring cleaning? It's time to recycle your electronics. Bring items such as, monitors, cords, cell phones, TV's, video game systems, stereos, etc. and E-Cycle! ->Sat. April 20 from [...]

Ahrens Park is Celebrating 30 Years!

Click the image below to view the Ahrens Park Foundation 30 year brochre.

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.

Give Now

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.