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.
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.
Latest News
“LEAVE IT BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT” Nominations Open
July 12, 2021 Nominations are open for the 2021 “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 groups [...]
Giving Gardens Growing Strong
June 25, 2021 Looking for some free fresh veggies? Check out the Giving Gardens this weekend. Pick some peas or basil at Marvin Garden. Add some zucchini or yellow squash from Summer St. Garden and [...]
Together, #GrinnelliansUnite
June 24, 2021 Yesterday, along with our community partners, the Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce officially submitted a video to the #IowansUnite Community Pride Video Contest to win a mural for Grinnell! You heard it [...]
Meet our New Hire!
June 9, 2021 Meet our newest hire, Jennifer Cogley! Jennifer is the director of partner programs for the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation, a brand new position for the Foundation. Jennifer will have [...]
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.
