News

We are proud to announce the 2024 recipients of the Greg Freshwater Memorial Scholarship: Waterloo firefighters Tim Harmon and Patrick McNally. Both are currently pursuing paramedic training at Hawkeye Community College, advancing their skills to better serve our community. The Greg Freshwater Memorial Scholarship Fund was established in 2017 to honor the life of firefighter Greg Freshwater, who … Read more

We are proud to introduce the Margaret Ann Enderlein Scholarship, honoring a woman whose life was dedicated to service and community. This scholarship will support Waterloo students pursuing their educational goals, continuing Ann’s legacy of generosity and commitment to others. Born and raised in Waterloo, Ann was deeply involved in the community throughout her life. She held board positions with … Read more

The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, November 6 at 11 AM for a Windows on Waterloo presentation. This presentation features Waterloo Police Chief Robert Duncan. Chief Duncan was sworn in this summer but has been in the Waterloo Police Department for over 25 years. He will join us to share insights on his new … Read more

Cedar Bend Humane Society is an open-admission, full-service animal shelter in Black Hawk County. They accept all animals regardless of age, breed, behavior, or health and make every effort to give them a loving home. The Waterloo Community Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Cedar Bend Humane Society Endowment Fund. An anonymous donor has generously … Read more

The Waterloo Community Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Cedar Valley Hospice Waterloo Endowment Fund. An anonymous donor has generously contributed the initial funds to create this long-term endowment, designated specifically for services in Waterloo. Cedar Valley Hospice is Northeast Iowa’s leading expert in hospice and palliative care. Their team of professionals offer a variety … Read more

We know how quickly and how deeply this city and its culture become a part of you because it’s part of us too. We want to help you create a legacy that reflects your love of Waterloo! This year, we are excited to introduce you to our brand-new Legacy Society, which recognizes the forward-thinking individuals who have decided to invest … Read more

The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, October 2 at 11 AM for a Windows on Waterloo presentation. This presentation features Katy Susong, President and CEO of Grow Cedar Valley. Katy will share about Grow Cedar Valley’s work and economic development in Waterloo. Community members may join this free online presentation by visiting https://wloocommunityfoundation.org/learning-opportunities/ or … Read more

We are celebrating another big milestone at the Waterloo Community Foundation – $5 million in assets under management! We invited our Board members and Founders to celebrate this accomplishment together. In 2015, a group of individuals who love Waterloo came together to establish a community foundation focused specifically on the needs and future of our city. It is incredible to … Read more

The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, September 4 at 11 AM for a Windows on Waterloo presentation. This presentation features House of Hope, a local nonprofit that provides transformational programming for single mothers in our community. They recently broke ground on a new Empowerment Center that allows for the expansion of their services. Join … Read more

We are pleased to announce the establishment of the Waterloo Public Library Endowment Fund with the Waterloo Community Foundation! An anonymous donor has generously contributed the initial funds to create this endowment. The Waterloo Public Library has been supporting and addressing the needs and interests of our community for over 125 years. This fund will provide long-term, sustainable support to provide free access … Read more

We are celebrating the renewal of our accreditation with National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations®! This designation recognizes community foundations that have rigorously examined their key operations of donor services, investment management, grantmaking, and administration. We are dedicated to providing a lean, straightforward, and transparent conduit to those who wish to contribute resources for the betterment of the greater Waterloo community … Read more

The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, August 7 at 11 AM for a Windows on Waterloo presentation. This presentation features Love INC of the Cedar Valley, an organization that is uniquely serving local families through their School Supply Store this month! Executive Director, Glen Keith, will also share about how Love INC networks with … Read more

The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, July 3 at 11 AM for a Windows on Waterloo presentation. This presentation focuses on the background of revitalization in the downtown and Waterloo’s transformative accomplishments over the past 20+ years, thanks to a consistent vision, committed leadership, and a successful Public-Private Partnership. Catalytic downtown projects will be … Read more

The public is invited to join the Waterloo Community Foundation on Wednesday, June 5 at 11 AM for a Windows on Waterloo presentation. Tavis Hall, Executive Director of Experience Waterloo, will preview My Waterloo Days and share what he is looking forward to. Additionally, Waterloo Youth City Council will join us to share how their programming is empowering young leaders … Read more

On Thursday, May 16, the Waterloo Community Foundation will gather for Celebrate Waterloo, an annual Grant Recipient and Donor Recognition Event, at the Hawkeye Community College Van G Miller Adult Learning Center. The Foundation will recognize nine nonprofits that received a total of $50,000 in competitive grant funds in 2024. This past fall, the Foundation received applications from … Read more

The Waterloo Community Foundation is awarding $26,500 in scholarships through its 2024 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, … Read more

Thank you for joining us for an Open House and Ribbon Cutting at our new office space in the Union Block building! We are excited to be in a common suite with Black Hawk County Gaming Association, McElroy Trust, and Otto Schoitz Foundation in the heart of downtown Waterloo at 114 East 4th Street. For the last several years, … Read more

Alex James “A.J.” Seeley was raised in the Cedar Valley and dedicated 11 ½ years to the North Star Community Services’ Supported Community Living program. He worked diligently to bring out the best in his clients, and Alex was a light in the lives of many. Alex’s mom says, “Alex found his true calling when he began working … Read more

Chuck and Alice Shirey’s relationship with the Waterloo Community Foundation began with a deep-rooted desire to invest in the potential of young people in their hometown. Both native to Waterloo, they grew up in families that valued community involvement and they committed to raising their family in Waterloo too. Chuck and Alice enjoyed and appreciated the educational opportunities … Read more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bob and Betty Hellman are bringing their passion for youth athletics and love of Waterloo together through the establishment of the Hellman Family Fund at the Waterloo Community Foundation. Their Fund will benefit youth athletics, including facilities, throughout the city to ensure future generations have thriving programs to enjoy. Betty says, “Our wish is that this Fund will … Read more