GreatAmerica Financial Services has made a significant impact in Eastern Iowa by awarding $250,000 to 14 local nonprofits as part of its fall 2024 giving cycle. This initiative is part of the company’s broader “GreatAmerica Gives Back” program, which emphasizes community support through financial contributions, employee engagement, and volunteerism.
Key Takeaways
- GreatAmerica awarded $250,000 to 14 nonprofits in Eastern Iowa.
- The grants range from $4,000 to $25,000, focusing on health, arts, and public projects.
- This marks the second giving cycle of 2024, totaling over $1.1 million in charitable contributions for the year.
The grants were determined through the Employee Advised Fund, where GreatAmerica employees actively participate in the decision-making process. This fund allows employees to vote on applications from various nonprofits, ensuring that the contributions align with the community’s needs.
Among the recipients are organizations dedicated to health and human services, arts and culture, and environmental efforts. Notable recipients include:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Corridor
- Bridgehaven Pregnancy Center
- Chelsey’s Dream Foundation
- Clothe-A-Child
- Community Health Free Clinic
- Eastern Iowa Health Center
- Horizons – A Family Service Alliance
- Linn County Trails Association
- Matthew 25
- Miracles in Motion Therapeutic Equestrian Center
- No Foot Too Small
- North Liberty Community Pantry
- Planned Parenthood of the Heartland
- Waypoint
GreatAmerica’s CEO, Martin Golobic, expressed pride in the commitment shown by employees towards local nonprofits, stating, "It is heartwarming to see the commitment our team members have for the nonprofits in our community."
The Employee Advised Fund was established in 2022 and has successfully completed four giving cycles to date. Nonprofits interested in applying for future grants must have 501(c)(3) status and secure sponsorship from a GreatAmerica employee. The next application cycle is set to open in spring 2025.
In a related philanthropic effort, the Bishop-Parker Foundation recently awarded nearly $3 million in grants to nonprofits in Manatee County, Florida. This funding supports a wide range of initiatives, including arts, education, and health services, demonstrating a strong commitment to community development across different regions.
The Bishop-Parker Foundation’s grants included significant contributions to organizations such as:
- Visible Men Academy: $390,350 for expanding enrollment capacity.
- ArtCenter Manatee: $500,000 for facility improvements.
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County: $75,000 for mental health programs.
These initiatives highlight the importance of community support and the role of nonprofits in enhancing the quality of life for residents. As local organizations continue to receive funding, they are better equipped to address pressing social issues and foster community engagement.
Both GreatAmerica and the Bishop-Parker Foundation exemplify how corporate and philanthropic efforts can work hand in hand to create lasting positive change in their respective communities.
Sources
- GreatAmerica awards $250K to Corridor nonprofits, Corridor Business Journal.
- Bishop-Parker Foundation awards $3 million to Manatee nonprofits, Sarasota Herald-Tribune.