Grinnell College Community Mini-Grant Program Announces Fall Grant Recipients

Jan 15, 2020

Grinnell College announces community mini-grants to four community enhancement initiatives led by area nonprofits. Community mini-grants focus on enhancing the social and economic vitality of our community including cultural, recreational, and educational projects, those addressing human needs, and those enhancing the safety and beauty of our surroundings. Recognizing that local organizations are critical in identifying and developing this community’s quality-of-life initiatives, the program also supports efforts that strengthen organizational capacity. Among other criteria, preference is given to proposals that leverage collaborative partnerships within the community and typically range from $1,000 to $7,500. Since 2002, the program has directed nearly $480,000 toward 201 community-driven initiatives.

Grants were awarded in December 2019 to four local nonprofit community organizations totaling $17,500:

Friends of Rock Creek State Park: $3,650 toward new playground equipment in the campground area.
Grinnell Community Early Learning Center (aka Grinnell Community Daycare and Preschool): $4,350 toward professional development for staff.
Grinnell Volunteer Firefighter Association: $7,500 toward firefighter gear for new barrier hoods.
Jewel Box Quilt Guild: $2,000 toward flannel blankets for all newborns regardless of need at UnityPoint Health-Grinnell.

“I am very excited to work more with the community, to help support and credit the good work that our local nonprofit partners are doing,” said Donnette Ellis. “In my new role as community relations and grant coordinator in the Office of Community Enhancement and Engagement, I look forward to working more with our community partners, building on our current relationships and creating new ones. It is an exciting opportunity to become more front facing in our office. We also welcome anyone to visit our new office space in Goodnow Hall on campus at 1118 Park Street.”

In addition, Grinnell College has announced that it is now accepting applications for the spring cycle of community mini-grants. Grant applications are due April 10 and awards will be announced by Friday, May 22, 2020.