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
Sign up for the 2026 Prairie Burn!
January 14, 2026 The Prairie Burn 100 brought together 308 participants for an unforgettable day of gravel biking, running, music, food, and community fun. Thank you to our volunteers, supporters, partners, and every athlete who [...]
Grinnell Food Coalition to Open Second Round of Harvest Grant Applications
January 6, 2026 The Grinnell Food Coalition (GFC) will open applications for its second Harvest Grant on January 5, continuing its commitment to strengthening food access and local food systems across Grinnell, Poweshiek County, and [...]
The Grinnell Community Meal Brings People Together
December 11, 2025 No plans for Christmas? The Grinnell United Methodist Church will be providing a free Christmas Day Dinner at noon. If you choose to dine in you will enjoy a beautiful setting and [...]
210 Trees Planted This Year!
December 10, 2025 Imagine Grinnell was busy planting and distributing trees this year! In the spring we were able to partner with the City of Grinnell and plant trees where road reconstruction occurred and then [...]
Free Holiday Movie Tickets for the Strand 3 Theatre
December 1, 2025 The Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation is proud to be a title sponsor of the Holiday Matinee series at Strand 3 Theatre. FREE tickets are available at the Foundation Offices [...]
Grinnell College, Grinnell Mutual, and the Campbell Fund Commit Support to Grinnell Food Coalition Emergency Appeal – Community Challenge Launched to Help Families Impacted by SNAP Benefit Suspension
November 15, 2025 The Grinnell Food Coalition (GFC) is calling on the community to come together in support of families continuing to feel the strain from the temporary suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) [...]
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
