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

Challenge Grant Issued to Help T.T. Cranny Field Upgrade

May 2, 2022 The initiative to upgrade T.T. Cranny Field at Grinnell High School, like so many other private and public projects, has encountered a significant cost increase due to pandemic-related workforce and supply chain [...]

Registration is Open for June 11, 2022, Prairie Burn 100 Gravel Bike Ride Fundraiser

April 15, 2022 Custom Jersey Orders Due April 19 The 2022 Prairie Burn 100 gravel bike ride will take off from Grinnell, Iowa’s Central Park on Saturday, June 11, 2022, with a start time [...]

Mental Health Speaker Series

March 29, 2022 The first Mental Health Speaker Series starts tonight! Come out and see us at Grinnell High School! Food, Community Resource Fair and an amazing speaker!

International Women’s Day

March 8, 2022 March 8 marks International Women’s Day and S.H.E Counts wants to take this time to celebrate the women in your life. Jane Casten, S.H.E. Counts board chair tells us “I was drawn [...]

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.