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

Grinnell Food Coalition Awards $18,300 in Harvest Grants to Strengthen Local Food Access

March 31, 2026 The Grinnell Food Coalition (GFC) has awarded $18,300 in Harvest Grants to eight organizations working to address food insecurity and strengthen local food systems in Grinnell and across Poweshiek County. The Harvest [...]

Imagine Grinnell Announces Challenge for Annual Appeal

March 24, 2026 Your gift can go twice as far! The Imagine Grinnell Board will match all Annual Appeal donations dollar-for-dollar up to $1,500. That means your support for: TreeCorps Prairie Burn & Bike [...]

SHE Counts to Host Women and Friends at Solera with Period Product Drive

March 12, 2026 SHE Counts, a program of the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation, is celebrating Women’s History Month by hosting a community-wide period product drive throughout March. The initiative aims to collect [...]

The Chamber’s Annual Celebration Announces Ahrens Park Foundation as Business of the Year

March 6, 2026 The Grinnell Area Chamber of Commerce recognized the Ahrens Park Foundation as the 2026 Business of the Year at this year’s Annual Celebration, which took place on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. [...]

Need Help with Housing Costs?

March 1, 2026 If you or someone you know is struggling to afford rent, utilities, or a housing deposit, the Poweshiek Housing Assistance Fund (PHAF) may be able to help. PHAF provides short-term financial [...]

Karen Phillips Mental Health Impact Grant

March 4, 2026 We’re honored to announce the Karen Phillips Mental Health Impact Grant, offered by the Grinnell Area Mental Health Consortium. Created in memory of Karen Phillips—a school counselor and founding member of [...]

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.