Eichacker / Lofton Grant Fund

The Eichacker / Lofton Grant Fund is administered by the Keokuk Area Community Foundation, an organization founded through the leadership and vision of George Eichacker and Richard Lofton. These founders established the original community grant fund to support charitable initiatives throughout the Keokuk area, and in 2024 the fund was renamed to honor their legacy. The Foundation, along with its affiliate the North Lee Community Foundation, focuses on strengthening communities across the tri-state region, particularly in Lee County, Iowa, while extending limited eligibility to nearby counties in Illinois and Missouri. The primary purpose of the Eichacker / Lofton Grant Fund is to provide financial support to nonprofit organizations and community-serving entities that address local needs in the areas of arts and culture, community betterment, education, health, and human services. The program is designed to enhance quality of life by funding initiatives that solve community problems, expand access to essential services, and create opportunities for civic engagement. Grants support both immediate community needs and long-term improvements, encouraging sustainable impact and organizational growth. Funding through this program is available for both capital and programmatic projects. Capital project funding may be used for building repairs, facility improvements, or the purchase and replacement of equipment and technology. Program funding supports the creation of new initiatives or the expansion of existing programs and services. Grants are awarded for a one-year period, and funding cannot be applied retroactively to projects already completed before award decisions are made. The program does not require a formal cost-sharing or matching component, although projects demonstrating additional funding support or community backing may be viewed more favorably. Eligible applicants include organizations recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, as well as municipalities, schools, and churches that demonstrate charitable intent. Geographic eligibility is limited to organizations located in or serving Lee County, Iowa, with additional eligibility extended to Hancock County, Illinois and Clark County, Missouri specifically for this grant fund. Only one application per organization is permitted during each grant cycle, and applicants must submit proposals through the designated online grants management system along with all required documentation. The application process requires completion of a full grant application submitted via the Foundation’s GLM system. Applicants are expected to clearly articulate the community need being addressed, describe the proposed project or program, and demonstrate organizational capacity to execute the initiative successfully. Competitive proposals typically include evidence of community support, practical and sustainable approaches, and a clear plan for achieving measurable outcomes. Preference is given to projects that foster collaboration, improve organizational effectiveness, build leadership, and strengthen community connections. Applications for the 2026 cycle open on April 28, 2026 and close on June 29, 2026. Grants are awarded following review by the Foundation’s board and selection committees, with awards typically supporting projects over the following year. The program operates on an annual cycle, with recurring opportunities expected each year around the same timeframe. Inquiries regarding the grant may be directed to the Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer, Philip Ricketts, who serves as a primary contact for applicants seeking guidance or clarification regarding eligibility and application requirements.

Focus on clear community impact demonstrate collaboration and provide realistic funding plans aligned with community needs