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.

Thank You To Our Community Partners

Latest News

Volunteer for Ahrens Park Run

May 3, 2026 Every Saturday the Ahrens Park parkrun relies on volunteers - timers, scanners, chip distributors, tail walkers and course marshals. The goal is to limit volunteers to one shift per month so [...]

Opening Night at Ahrens Park

April 30, 2026 Opening Night of Tiger Baseball and Softball Club at Ahrens Park. The sky was on fire and so were the Tigers! The perfect way to kick off the season. [...]

Groundbreaking for Grinnell’s new Elementary School at Ahrens Park

April 29, 2026 We were honored to stand alongside the Grinnell-Newburg Community School District for the official groundbreaking of the new elementary school! Following the Foundation’s gift of 38 acres of land to the district, [...]

Prairie Burn 100 Returns June 6 with New Routes, New Distances, and a Full Day of Community Events

April 27, 2026 The Prairie Burn 100 Gravel Bike Ride and Fun Run returns on Saturday, June 6, bringing exciting updates, new route options, and a full day of community [...]

Ahrens Park Run is Growing Each Week

April 26, 2026 The #4 Ahrens Park parkrun is in the books and it was a beautiful morning! We had 38 runners/walkers and 4 dogs. Visitors from the UK and Des Moines participated as did [...]

FOOD FOR ALL: Why urban farming has its advantages.

April 24, 2026 (By April Pearson, Fresh Pickings Magazine) Urban farming involves planting, maintaining and harvesting community gardens, as well as growing food in public areas, so all have access to fresh and healthy [...]

Ahrens Park Foundation – 2026 Business of the Year

Strand 3 Theatre – 2026 Retailer/Restaurant of the Year

(Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation is part owner/managing partner)

Annual Report

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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.