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
Final Food Box Distribution May 13
May 9, 2021 The final round of "Time to Eat", our free food box program is Thursday, May 13. Starting at 4pm for the public. Located at 2021 6th Ave.
Once Upon A Playground
May 6, 2021 Great post from the Chandler Museum- AZ about Grinnell local Susan Ahrens Witt , CDAF Board Member and Granddaughter of the late Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens. So cool! Have you ever [...]
Imagine Grinnell provides Trees
May 3, 2021 Trees were distributed at Ahrens Park on May 1st to be planted in wards 3 and 4- generally, south of Hwy 6 in Grinnell. Day 3 of [...]
Recap of Gifting Grinnell Virtual Auction to Stimulate Business, Benefit Local Nonprofit Programs
April 22, 2021 Gifting Grinnell, a virtual month-long auction intended to stimulate business activity and benefit nonprofit programs, raised approximately $14,000 to be distributed among twenty-two local nonprofit programs. Gifting Grinnell was a community [...]
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.
Grinnell’s Mask Up marketing group has launched a new campaign to encourage continued mask wearing and help combat COVID protocol fatigue. Community members share why they still Mask Up – and encourage others to continue to Mask Up. Click on the link below for more information on the Mask Up campaign.
Application/Reimbursement
Form for Service Providers
