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
Meals from the Heartland meal packaging
October 25, 2021 The Grinnell Food Coalition partnered with local businesses and organizations to bring a Meals from the Heartland packaging opportunity to Grinnell. The event was held on Friday, October 22 at the Bayer [...]
We GIVE kicks off October 1 Reengaging and Refocusing on the Future
October 1, 2021 The Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation (GPCF) and the Claude W. & Dolly Ahrens Foundation (CDAF) will kick-off the year-end giving season with the annual We GIVE, a month-long fundraiser starting October 1 [...]
Jennifer Cogley Appointed as Director of Partner Programs
September 29, 2021 Jennifer Cogley served as an AmeriCorps VISTA for the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation (CDAF) for two years before accepting the newly created position, Director of Partner Programs, in June of [...]
SHE Counts board gathers to distribute personal care items
September 13, 2021 SHE Counts board members gathered to distribute over 4100 feminine hygiene products. Thank you for all of the donations! Contributions can still be made at HyVee in Grinnell. All products to benefit, [...]
We GIVE Fundraising Campaign Kicks Off October 1
Click the Catalog of Giving image below to learn more about We GIVE and our Partner Program Funds. Or click the Donate Now button to make a donation.
Application/Reimbursement
Form for Service Providers
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.
