Max and Helen Guernsey Charitable Foundation Grants

The Guernsey Charitable Foundation provides funding to nonprofit and governmental organizations in eight counties within Iowa: Benton, Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan, Butler, Grundy, Fayette, and Tama. The Foundation emphasizes a strong commitment to community enhancement and strives to address key regional needs through targeted philanthropic support. Their mission focuses on empowering local entities that align with their priorities in areas such as social issues, education, family life and community betterment, and health, recreation, and fitness. Applicants may request funding through an online grant portal, which serves as the exclusive platform for submissions. Those applying for the first time are encouraged to contact the Foundation for guidance. Additionally, new applicants might be invited to meet with the Board of Trustees prior to a funding decision. All decisions are made through a formal board vote process, and written notice is sent to applicants following the final determination. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $35,000. Applicants wishing to seek funding beyond this range must first speak with the Executive Director to determine eligibility. Upon approval and funding, recipients must submit a Documentation of Contribution form through the grants system and are required to provide a follow-up grant report between 9 and 12 months after receiving funds. Organizations wishing to apply again the following year must submit this report prior to submitting a new request. To be eligible, applicants must be either government entities or tax-exempt organizations classified as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. Government agencies must provide an official letter confirming that they are acting under Section 107(a) and will use the funds exclusively for public purposes. Nonprofits must provide their IRS determination letter, along with extensive financial documentation including current and previous year budgets, IRS Form 990, balance sheets, and income and expense statements. The Foundation accepts applications twice a year. Deadlines are March 15 for decisions in May, and September 15 for decisions in November. Grants are awarded on a recurring basis, with applicants allowed to submit only once per calendar year. All applicants are advised to thoroughly review the Foundation’s mission, eligibility requirements, and grant limitations before applying. Questions about eligibility or the application process may be directed to Shannon Hickman, Executive Director, at office@guernseyfoundation.com or by calling 319-260-2151. The Foundation is located at 3826 Cedar Heights Drive, Suite #1, Cedar Falls, IA 50613.

First-time applicants are advised to contact the Foundation and may be invited to meet the board.