News

  • Windows on Waterloo Presentation about New High School Plans
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, April 3 at 11 AM for a presentation from Waterloo Schools Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith about the vision and plans for the proposed new high school in Waterloo. Community members may join this free online presentation by visiting https://wloocommunityfoundation.org/learning-opportunities/ or by contacting the Foundation’s Program Manager, Paige Price, … Read more
  • I’m Tyler Fund Spreads Message of Ability Awareness
    Tyler Greene was known as a friend to all around Waterloo and was notorious for his outgoing, warm demeanor. Tyler was born with cerebral palsy and other disabilities, which he fully embraced. He spent his life sharing the message of Ability Awareness – that what someone can do is much more important than what they cannot do – … Read more
  • Waterloo Community Foundation Announces New Board Members
    The Waterloo Community Foundation is naming four new members to the Board of Directors in 2024. The Waterloo Community Foundation was established in 2015 for the long-term benefit of the community of Waterloo. The mission of the Foundation is to provide a lean, straightforward, and transparent conduit vehicle to those who wish to contribute resources for the betterment … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – Immigrant and Refugee Services
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, March 6 at 11 AM for a joint presentation from three local organizations – RIYO, World Grace Project, and LSI. They will be shedding light on the needs, resources, and trends within Waterloo’s immigrant and refugee community. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and engage with valuable insights … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – Waterloo’s Black History with Charles Pearson
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, February 7 at 11 AM for a presentation from local historian Charles Pearson. Charles will share stories about local places, people, and events central to Black history in Waterloo. He will also share the importance of preserving this history and ideas to implement this in our community. Community … Read more
  • 2024 Scholarships Available
    The Waterloo Community Foundation announces that applications are now being accepted from area high school seniors for twelve scholarships: DAVE AUMER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – A $500 renewable award to a graduating senior of the Waterloo Warriors hockey team. It is renewable for up to 3 consecutive years. DENAE NASH SCHOLARSHIP – This $1,000 scholarship is awarded to a … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – Mayor Hart
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, January 3 at 11 AM for a presentation from Mayor Hart with an update on Waterloo’s 2030 Vision and Strategic Plan. Mayor Hart will share what has been accomplished so far and the opportunities he is excited about for the future. Community members may join this free online … Read more
  • Empowering Young Leaders Through Grantmaking
    As we approached this year’s competitive grant cycle, we saw an opportunity to infuse creative strategies into our grantmaking processes. One way we were able to explore this was a collaboration with Waterloo Youth City Council to select one grant recipient.  Waterloo Youth City Council, comprising students from all four high schools in Waterloo, offers a platform for young … Read more
  • Announcing 2023 Grant Recipients
    This year, we awarded over $50,000 to nonprofit organizations through our competitive grant process. We received applications from qualified organizations for projects or programs that benefit the community of Waterloo in one of four areas: health and human services, arts and culture, education, and economic development. “We are excited to partner with these organizations and encourage their inspiring … Read more
  • Waterloo Church Launches Endowment Fund for Royal Legacy Christian Academy
    Saviour Missionary Baptist Church is taking steps to secure the future of affordable Christian education by contributing initial funds to a long-term endowment fund for Royal Legacy Christian Academy. Royal Legacy Christian Academy is a dual-language school providing a Christ-centered educational option in the Cedar Valley. Their mission is to provide a safe, friendly and Christ-centered environment where … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – Building Bridges Through Social Enterprise with Try Pie
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, December 6 at 11 AM for a presentation from Try Pie about how they utilize a social enterprise model to employ and empower teen girls in the community. They will share information about how a social enterprise works, the challenges they face, and how they utilize this model … Read more
  • Accessing Cancer Treatment Fund Helps Under-Resourced Patients
    Diane Anderson is transforming her battle against cancer into a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges. Diane was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, joining a troubling statistic of twelve teachers from the Hudson School District diagnosed with cancer within a decade. This started her on a path of advocacy, including the initiation of a Cancer … Read more
  • Veteran’s Memorial Hall Fund Supporting Historic Building
    Waterloo celebrates a proud military history – from the development of Veteran’s Way Art and History Walk to banners lining downtown streets and the red, white, and blue lights illuminating the Cedar River along the 4th Street bridge each night. Waterloo’s Memorial Hall Commission is providing a new opportunity to honor and remember the community’s veterans through the Veteran’s … Read more
  • Holden Family Fund Meets Changing Needs in Waterloo
    Sam and Janet (Rohlf) Holden have deep roots in Waterloo. Both the Holden and Rohlf families have been in the community for generations and the pair originally met as students at Kingsley Elementary. Their parents set strong examples of community service that continue to inspire Sam and Janet. After living in Manchester for 32 years, Sam and Janet returned … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – Waterloo Community Playhouse
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, November 1 at 11 AM for a presentation from the Waterloo Community Playhouse. Executive Director Anita Ross will join us to share about the importance of community theater and what she is excited about in the next season of the Waterloo Community Playhouse! Community members may join this … Read more
  • Greg Freshwater Memorial Fund Providing Scholarships to Three Waterloo Firefighters
    The Greg Freshwater Memorial Paramedic Scholarship Fund was established to honor the life and legacy of Waterloo firefighter Greg Freshwater, who was fatally injured in an accident while jogging in south Waterloo in summer 2017. The scholarship aids Waterloo firefighters with the cost of paramedic school, which Greg was enrolled in at the time of the accident. The … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – Friends of the Family
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, October 4 at 11 AM for a presentation from Friends of the Family. As homelessness is a rising issue across the country, Friends of the Family provides assistance that helps individuals overcome barriers to maintaining stable housing. They will provide information about the state of homelessness in Waterloo … Read more
  • Cultural Tourism Project Connects Waterloo to Black History
    Charles Pearson is launching a new cultural tourism project in Waterloo to identify and promote African American historic places. The Waterloo native and East High School graduate has researched and developed multiple walking, biking, and driving tours throughout Iowa, focusing on African American historic places and Civil Rights locations. In the coming year, Pearson will be showcasing Waterloo’s … Read more
  • 6th Annual Greg Freshwater Memorial Ruck March Honors Fallen Waterloo Firefighter
    Family, friends, and first responders will come together to remember and celebrate the life of fallen Waterloo firefighter, Greg Freshwater, at the 6th Annual Greg Freshwater Memorial Ruck March. This event will take place on Tuesday, August 29 at 9 AM as participants embark on a walk from Prairie Grove Park to Greg’s final resting place, commemorating his … Read more
  • Grant Opportunity Available
    The Waterloo Community Foundation (WCF) seeks grant proposals from qualified organizations that benefit the community of Waterloo in one of four areas:  health and human services, arts and culture, education, or economic development.   In making this announcement, Executive Director Erin Tink said, “Our Board is passionate about granting back out into the community. Since the first grant was … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – UNI Center for Urban Education (UNI-CUE)
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, September 6 at 11 AM for a presentation from Robert Smith and Bethany Botchway from UNI Center for Urban Education (UNI-CUE). They will share about the UNI-CUE programs that help community members continue their education and prepare for careers. Community members may join this free online presentation by … Read more
  • August is National Make-A-Will Month!
    We often think of August as the end of summer and back to school time, but did you know it is also National Make-a-Will Month? No matter your age, it’s a great time to think about your future and plan ahead. Writing a will helps you answer the questions that mean the most to you –  Haven’t made a will yet?   … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo Presentation with Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley CEO, Bryan Burton
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, August 2 at 11 AM for a presentation from Bryan Burton, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley. He will share about the programs they offer local youth and plans they have for the future. Community members may join this free online presentation by contacting … Read more
  • RIYO: Empowering Refugee and Immigrant Youth in Waterloo
    June 20th is World Refugee Day, a day to recognize and honor refugees from around the world. Waterloo is home to a growing refugee and immigrant population and we are proud of the work RIYO is doing to empower youth! Refugee and Immigrant Youth Organization (RIYO) is a grassroots organization founded by refugees with the mission to expand the … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – Experience Waterloo
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, July 5 at 11 AM for a presentation from Experience Waterloo. They will recap this year’s My Waterloo Days celebration and share about the growth of local tourism attractions such as arena football, Lost Island, and more ideas that make Waterloo a great place to visit and live. … Read more
  • Community Fund Honors Legacy of Waterloo Leader Sharon Juon
    The Dave and Sharon Juon Memorial Fund is a Community Fund established at the Waterloo Community Foundation to honor and continue the legacy of community leader, Sharon Juon. Sharon was a dedicated community leader and demonstrated her love for Waterloo in both her professional and personal life. She served as the Executive Director of the Iowa Northland Regional … Read more
  • Geof and Vicki Grimes Fund Honors Legacy of Geof Grimes
    The Waterloo Community Foundation is proud to announce the establishment of the Geof and Vicki Grimes Fund in memory of founder and former board president, Geof Grimes. The Fund was set up by the Grimes family and will contribute resources toward organizations that support arts and culture, education, and relief from food insecurity in the community. Geof Grimes … Read more
  • 2023 Scholarship Recipients Announced
    The Waterloo Community Foundation awarded $42,500 in scholarships through its 2023 scholarship program. Scholarships are offered annually for high school seniors attending a post-secondary institution in the fall and each has its own eligibility requirements. The Foundation works alongside various donors to establish funds, determine eligibility requirements, and select recipients. Waterloo Community Foundation Executive Director, Erin Tink, said, … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo – North End Update & Nia Wilder
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, June 7 at 11 AM as we hear a presentation from Ms. Rocki and Chaveevah of North End Update and Councilwoman Nia Wilder. Together, they will present about the importance of using media to share positive stories in our community. Ms. Rocki and Chaveevah will share about their … Read more
  • VGM Group Announces Winners of 2023 Scholarship Program
    VGM Group, in partnership with the Waterloo Community Foundation, has awarded six $1,500 scholarships to dependents of VGM Group employees. This year’s recipients are: • Gracelyn Anderson of Waterloo West High School, daughter of Shauna Anderson of Corporate Accounting. •   Padraig Gallagher of Beckman Catholic High School, son of John Gallagher of VGM Government Relations. • Allison Sessler of Denver High … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo with Police Chief Joe Leibold
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, May 3 at 11 AM as we hear a presentation from Waterloo Police Chief Joe Leibold. Leibold was sworn in as Police Chief in November 2022 but has been with the Waterloo Police Department for over 30 years. He will join us to share insights on his new … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo with Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley and Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, April 5 at 11 AM as we hear about services provided to the community by Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley and Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging (NEI3A). Megan Zimmerman will share about Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley and how they are working to make the Cedar Valley a more … Read more
  • Join a Live Conversation on Local Efforts to Close the Wealth Gap with Waterloo Entrepreneur ReShonda Young
    The Center for Public Integrity invites everyone to join a live conversation onWednesday, March 29, from 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. to discuss local efforts being made toclose the wealth gap between Black and white Americans. The conversation will featureReShonda Young, the subject of “The Heist Season 2: The Wealth Vortex”, Public Integrity’s award-winning podcast. Jamie Smith Hopkins, … Read more
  • 2nd Annual Kevin Dill Golf Tournament Coming Up in Waterloo
    The 2nd Annual Kevin Dill Golf Tournament for Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley and Veterans will take place Saturday, May 20, 2023 at Gates Golf Course in Waterloo. All proceeds will benefit Dementia Friendly Cedar Valley, American Legion #138, Combat Motorcycle Association®️ 39-6, and similar programs serving Veterans. Contributions will be managed through the Kevin Dill Family Fund at … Read more
  • The Bette W Fund Established to Honor Legacy of Bette Wubbena
    A Fund has been established with the Waterloo Community Foundation to honor the legacy of community leader Bette Wubbena and encourage the health and vitality of Waterloo and its citizens. Bette Wubbena was the Events Director at Grow Cedar Valley and a longtime champion for Waterloo. She was involved in various community organizations, including the Waterloo Downtown Council, … Read more
  • Local EAA Chapter Establishes Scholarship for Young Pilots
    The EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association) Chapter 227 has established a scholarship for aspiring pilots pursuing their private pilot’s license. The EAA 227 Young Pilot’s Scholarship will award $1,000 to eligible candidates enrolled in an accredited pilot training program at the Waterloo Airport, Independence Airport, Oelwein Airport, or Waverly Airport. Up to five awards can be offered in a … Read more
  • Updates to Endow Iowa Tax Credit Program
    There are some important changes affecting the Endow Iowa Tax Credit program in 2023. As a nationally accredited community foundation, we have been proud to offer this program, which gives donors who give to a permanently endowed fund at a qualified community foundation an opportunity to receive a 25% state of Iowa tax credit for their gift. This … Read more
  • New Members Join Waterloo Community Foundation Board
    We are welcoming six new members to our Board of Directors in 2023! One of our strengths is our locally focused Board. Board members have diverse backgrounds and experiences, but share ties to Waterloo. These individuals have uniquely contributed to our community and we know their knowledge, expertise, and love for our city will be assets to the Foundation and, ultimately, … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo with Riverview Center
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, March 1 at 11 AM as we hear from Riverview Center about the services they provide survivors of sexual and domestic assault through their Waterloo Crisis Intervention Program. Community members may join this free presentation by contacting the Foundation’s Program Manager, Paige Price, at paige.price@wloocommunityfoundation.org. Windows on Waterloo … Read more
  • Windows on Waterloo with Waterloo Community Schools
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, February 1 at 11 AM as we hear from Waterloo Community School District Superintendent, Dr. Jared Smith. Dr. Smith will be providing insights and updates on how his first year in the district is going and initiatives he is excited about for the future. Community members may join … Read more
  • Scholarships Now Available
    We are offering 12 scholarship opportunities for students in 2023. A user account can be created here and applications can be submitted from now until 11:59 PM on March 12, 2023. The scholarship opportunities include the following: DAVE AUMER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP, a $500 renewable award to a graduating senior of the Waterloo Warriors hockey team. It is renewable … Read more
  • Family YMCA of Black Hawk County Endowment Fund
    The Waterloo Community Foundation is announcing the establishment of the Family YMCA of Black Hawk County Endowment Fund. With a commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living, and fostering a sense of social responsibility, the Y is a powerful association of men, women, and children of all ages joined together by their shared passion. The … Read more
  • Announcing 2022 Grant Recipients
    This year, we are awarding seven $5,000 grants through our competitive grant process. The Foundation received 38 inspiring applications from qualified organizations for projects or programs that benefit the community of Waterloo in one of four areas: health and human services, arts and culture, education, and economic development. After careful consideration of the volunteer Grants Committee, the 2022 … Read more
  • Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity Establishes Endowment with Waterloo Community Foundation
    The Waterloo Community Foundation is announcing the establishment of the Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity-Waterloo Endowment Fund. In 1990, Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity began serving in Black Hawk, Butler, Bremer, and Buchanan counties, building affordable homes for qualifying homebuyers and completing critical home repairs in owner-occupied homes. As Iowa Heartland Habitat for Humanity is looking to the … Read more
  • Waterloo West High School Class of 1962 Establishes Scholarship for Local Students
    The Waterloo West High School class of 1962 made their 60th High School Reunion a little more special this year by establishing the West High Class of 1962 Scholarship Fund at the Waterloo Community Foundation. Knowing this was the final reunion the group would share, classmates Jim McGreevey, David Kyner, Marcia Lieberman, and Denny and Barb Dietz dreamed … Read more
  • Estate Planning Seminar
    The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation and Friendship Village Foundation on Wednesday, November 16 at 1:30 PM for an Estate Planning Seminar. Theresa Hoffman, Attorney, will be presenting estate planning strategies and related tax and legal updates. Theresa specializes in estate planning, wills, and probate law. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the … Read more