June 6, 2026
The Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation, the Greater Poweshiek Community Foundation, and Grinnell College announce a new series, Grinnell Gathers. This free, year-long series offers an in-depth look at the many ways communities come together and how community members can get involved. Participants will hear from neighbors, businesses, and organizations, including 100+ People Who Care, about the impact they hope to make in the community.
Regarding the new series, Monica Chavez-Silva, Vice President of Community Engagement and Strategic Planning, says, “Grinnell welcomes students and new residents who are ready and willing to connect and get involved in the community, but don’t always know how. We hope that this series can help shine a light on all the different ways that people can get involved, get connected, and make a difference.”
The first discussion in the series will focus on local philanthropy and the many ways individuals and organizations contribute to strengthening their communities. The session will be held at the Katherine Howell Weingart ’61 Civic Innovation Pavilion at Renfrow Hall (1033 Broad Street) on Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 5-6 p.m.
The event will feature a moderated discussion and Q&A with six community members who participate in philanthropy in different ways and who will share ideas for how others can get involved. Moderated by Sarah Smith (Grinnell College), the panelists will include Julie Gosselink (Claude and Dolly Ahrens Foundation), Monica Chavez-Silva (Grinnell College), Matt Moyer (Bayer), Tom Latimer (Latitude Signage), Laura Manatt (Brooklyn Opera House), Nicole Brua-Behrens (GPCF), and Tim Hammond (100+ People Who Care).
Julie Gosselink, president, CEO, and chair of the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation, says, “Grinnell Gathers is an opportunity to explore how each of us can play a role in building a stronger community. We hope these conversations will inspire Internal new connections, new ideas, and new ways for people to get involved in shaping Grinnell’s future.”
Refreshments will be provided courtesy of the Department of Alumni Relations. This event is free and open to the public. No RSVP is required.
