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

Native Landscaping in Bloom at Ahrens Park

July 26, 2022 Have you noticed the awesome native plants and wildflowers around Ahrens Park? Check them out next time you’re here. There are 3 different native landscaping areas around the park. Which ones [...]

Assistance for GMS band instruments through the Vosburg Music Fund

July 18, 2022 Music education in school has so many benefits, including: Improved memory Better test scores Improved language skills Better math skills Confidence and Self esteem Thinking about band and choir as your [...]

Mental Health Speaker Series Sept 15th

July 15, 2022 The next speaker for the mental health speaker series with the Grinnell-Newburg School District is in 2 months! Save the Date for Sept. 15. We need you Does your group or business [...]

“LEAVE IT BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT” Nominations Open

July 1, 2022 Nominations are open for the 2022 “Leave It Better Than You Found It” awards from the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation. All Grinnell area nonprofit, social, civic, fraternal, and community [...]

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.

Healthiest State Initiative Workplace Winner

The Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation was announced the winner of the 2022 Healthiest State Small Workplace Award. The award recognizes the Ahrens Foundation for efforts to improve the physical, social and emotional well-being of its employees.