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

CDAF to Co-Host October PANG Session on Financial Fundamentals for Nonprofits

Ahrens Family Foundation2026-09-17T09:26:21-06:00September 16th, 2026|0 Comments

September 16, 2026 The Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation (CDAF) is pleased to co-host the next Poweshiek Area Nonprofit Gathering (PANG) session with the Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation on Wednesday, October 14, from [...]

The walls are going up on the new elementary school

Ahrens Family Foundation2026-09-17T10:04:44-06:00September 14th, 2026|0 Comments

September 14, 2026 (Re-post from the Grinnell-Community School District) Exciting progress continues on our new Grinnell-Newburg elementary school! As of Friday afternoon, 13 wall panels were in place, and there is much more to come [...]

Annual Kites Over Grinnell at Ahrens Park September 26th

Ahrens Family Foundation2026-09-17T12:54:18-06:00September 13th, 2026|0 Comments

September 13, 2026 Saturday, September 26th @Ahrens Park South Ball Diamonds From 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. FREE FAMILY EVENT. FREE Lunch - Hotdog, Chips & Water All Kites will be Colored & Assembled at [...]

Grinnell Gathers Series Connects Community Members to Opportunities for Involvement

Ahrens Family Foundation2026-09-17T12:45:36-06:00September 10th, 2026|0 Comments

September 10, 2026 (Written by Grinnell College) The Grinnell Gathers series was inspired by local resident Rieslynn Goetzinger. As she wrapped up her senior year of high school, Goetzinger wanted to share the impact [...]

Join the Move for Your Mind walk/run October 3rd!

Ahrens Family Foundation2026-09-02T14:10:41-06:00September 1st, 2026|Comments Off on Join the Move for Your Mind walk/run October 3rd!

September 1, 2026 Join the Grinnell Area Mental Health Consortium and Park Run for Move for Your Mind, a community walk/run focused on mental health, wellness, and connection. Saturday, October 3 9:00 a.m. Ahrens [...]

Progress on Grinnell-Newburg Elementary School at Ahrens Park

Ahrens Family Foundation2026-08-12T13:58:10-06:00August 11th, 2026|Comments Off on Progress on Grinnell-Newburg Elementary School at Ahrens Park

August 11, 2026 It is exciting to see the progress continuing at the site of our new elementary school. The latest drone footage gives us a great look at how much the site is [...]

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.