July 23, 2025
The Ahrens Park Foundation and the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation are pleased to announce a generous donation from University of Miami tennis standout Alexa Noel. This contribution will support the purchase of new shade, play, and agility structures at Dolly’s Dog Park located at Ahrens Park, as well as general support for operations of the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation.
Alexa, whose parents, Brett and Juree Noel, grew up in Grinnell, has strong ties to the community and has spent time at Ahrens Park over the years while visiting family. Her donation reflects her deep appreciation for Grinnell and her desire to give back to a place that holds special memories for her and her family.
“I have so many great memories of visiting Ahrens Park with my family,” said Alexa Noel. “The park and the Ahrens Foundations are an important part of the Grinnell community, and I’m honored to support the dog park and their various programs and causes.”
The donation will directly contribute to improvements at Dolly’s Dog Park, including new agility equipment and shaded areas for visitors and their pets to be added later this summer. Additionally, the funds will aid in helping to support the ongoing operations of the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation and its programs that make a substantial impact on the local area.
“We are incredibly grateful for Alexa’s generosity,” said Julie Gosselink, President & CEO of the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation. “Her gift will have a lasting impact on the dog park and for pet owners who use this new facility as well as the many individuals and families that benefit from the programs of the Claude and Dolly Ahrens Foundation. It’s wonderful to see someone with roots in Grinnell giving back in such a meaningful way.”
Dolly’s Dog Park, a popular off-leash area within Ahrens Park, provides a safe and engaging space for dogs and their owners. The planned additions will enhance the experience for parkgoers and their furry friends, making the space even more enjoyable for the community.
The Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation is a family foundation dedicated to providing innovative charitable programs and support to local community projects and needs. Programs include Giving Gardens, Grinnell Area Mental Health Consortium, Grinnell Food Coalition, Imagine Grinnell, P.O.W.E.R. Kids, Poweshiek Housing Assistance Fund, S.H.E. Counts, Strong Foundation, Tiger Packs, and Vosburg Music Fund.
For more information about Ahrens Park please visit ahrensfamilyfoundation.org/ahrens-park-foundation/. For more information about the Claude W. and Dolly Ahrens Foundation please visit ahrensfamilyfoundation.org or contact the Foundation Offices at (641)236-5518 or email info@ahrensfamilyfoundation.org
