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.
Thank You To Our Community Partners




Latest News
Fireworks at Ahrens Park – July 4th!
July 1, 2025 Mark your calendars and gather your crew — the annual fireworks show at Ahrens Park is happening Friday, July 4th after dusk! Enjoy an evening under the stars Grab dinner from your [...]
Prairie Burners enjoy riding, running, summer fun outside
June 23, 2025 Imagine Grinnell hosted its sixth annual Prairie Burn 100 event, based in Grinnell’s Central Park, on Saturday, June 14. More than 300 riders and runners participated in the various ride and [...]
Giving Gardens Update
June 13, 2025 The 3rd graders at Davis Elementary rolled up their sleeves and planted the Davis Giving Garden before the last day of school! There’s no better way to start the morning [...]
UnityPoint Health – Grinnell and Imagine Grinnell Donate 464 Helmets to Area Third Graders
June 11, 2025 UnityPoint Health – Grinnell Regional Medical Center (GRMC) Foundation and Imagine Grinnell recently teamed up to promote health, wellness and safety by donating and fitting 464 bike helmets for third-grade students in [...]
June Grinnell Food Coalition Partners Meeting
June 10, 2025 Thanks to everyone who joined our June GFC Community Partners meeting We heard from Ella Mucciolo, who shared deliverables from her practicum with Grinnell Farm to Table—including a network map, resource map, [...]
Opening Night for Tiger Baseball and Softball at Ahrens Park
June 9, 2025 Even though the games got rained out, oh what a night! It was fun to see all of the Tiger Baseball and Softball Club players gathered to kick off the season at [...]
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 programs we serve and how you can support their program funds.
Application/Reimbursement Form for Service Providers



