CFHC Foundation Board Annual Awards Events, 2026
The Community Foundation of Hancock County supports projects that enhance quality of life in Hancock County, Iowa, by addressing community needs in arts and culture, education, health and human services, the environment, and civic engagement.
Funding for our grants program comes from a portion of gaming revenue through the State of Iowa Community Endowment Program and private donors.
Questions regarding our grants may be directed to Ellen Tusha, Director: hancockcounty@desmoinesfoundation.org.
Unlike traditional loans, community grants are funding awards that do not need to be repaid. Powered by local donations and county endowment revenues, these funds are directly invested into nonprofit initiatives, educational programs, public safety upgrades, and civic developments.
Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government units submit proposals detailing specific community projects. Our foundation board reviews applications to ensure dollars go where they can do the most good, awarding funding to support actionable, high-impact community goals.
Grants serve as the engine for local progress. They allow small nonprofits to expand services, enable fire departments and libraries to upgrade vital tools, and turn big community ideas into reality—ensuring Hancock County remains a vibrant place to live, work, and grow.
Grants are available only to Hancock County, Iowa – based 501(c)(3) nonprofits or qualifying government units that provide public benefit (e.g., public libraries, fire and rescue, parks & recreation, other municipal departments) for residents of Hancock, Iowa.
Organizations without IRS status may apply through a fiscal sponsor. A fiscal sponsor is an organization that receives and manages grant funds on behalf of an applicant, handling payments and required documentation. The sponsor must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or a 170(c)(1) government entity. When selecting a sponsor, look for an organization that aligns with or benefits from your project. If using a fiscal sponsor, a signed sponsorship agreement must be included with the grant application.
Applicants with an active grant extension or an outstanding final report from a prior grant are ineligible to receive a grant until previous projects and the final grants report has been submitted and approved.
The Community Foundation of Hancock County’s first impactful grant to GC4 paved the way for a transformative new daycare center, a vital resource for families across Hancock County.
Recognizing the urgent need for accessible, quality childcare, GC4 used part of the grant funding to establish a daycare that serves all residents, regardless of background or circumstance. This new facility not only supports working parents but also strengthens the community by providing a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn and grow.
The daycare’s opening marked a milestone in Hancock County’s social infrastructure. It has created jobs, offered early childhood education programs, and become a hub where families connect and support one another.
Thanks to the Community Foundation of Hancock County belief in GC4’s vision, this daycare is more than a building – it’s a lifeline that helps sustain the county’s workforce and fosters a brighter future for the next generation.
The impact of this first grant continues to ripple through Hancock County, proving that strategic philanthropy can spark lasting change for everyone.
5 Loaves 2 Fish– Free summer lunch for kids, clothing closet,school supplies
American Legion – Repaint Freedom Rock
Friends of Bear Creek – Outdoor rough mower back 9
Britt Golf Course Foundation – Growing the game for youth of Hancock Co.
Brit Park and Rec – Fence for ballfield
City of Garner – New pool aquatic chairs and sun shades
Duncan Heights – Britt apartment renovation
Garner Golf course Foundation – Course improvement repair of irrigation
GHV School Libraries – New Books and staying current
Garner Rural Fire – On site portable tank
Garner United Methodist Church – Cooling God’s pantry
Gods Pantry – Holiday food box
Hancock County Ag Society – Master site plan and feasibility study
HCEDC – 2026 Intern program and Marketing
Hancock County Extension and Outreach – Youth programing
Hancock County Wellness – Stronger together program
One on One Mentoring –GHV Mentors and students
WH CSD – Classroom Furniture upgrade
Hancock County Extension and Outreach – Youth Programing
North Central Iowa Research Assoc – ISU Research Farm Expansion
5 Loaves 2 Fish – Ministry Supplies
GC4 – New Building
WH CSD – Public Seating
Garner Chamber of Commerce – New Website
HCEDC – Hancock County Marketing
HCEDC – Hancock County Marketing
HCEDC – Career Fair
Avery Theater – Building Repairs
City of Crystal Lake – Exterior of maintenance shop
City of Crystal Lake-Fire Dept – Fire Station Interior Repairs
Gods Pantry – Coupon for produce and Eggs
Duncan Heights – Flooring for New Apartments
GHV School Libraries – New Books Stem Exploration
GHV One On One Mentoring – Funding for group activities
BIDCO – siding and front door daycare
St. Patricks Knights of Columbus of Britt – Housing Restoration
One Vision – Support for Life of Possibilities
Hancock County Historical Society – Repair Porch
Hancock Co. Learning Center – Camera Surveillance System
Hancock County Ag Society – Bingo Stand Renovations
The Community Foundation of Hancock County (an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines) provides annual grant funding for community betterment projects located in Hancock County. The Foundation focuses on Quality of Life/Community Betterment, Arts and Culture, Education/Lifelong Learning, and Community/Economic Development.
