North Lee Community Foundation

08/03/2026

📢 Applications are now open!

The 2026 Kowzan Sandrock Grant Fund is officially accepting applications.

Thanks to the generosity of the Kowzan and Sandrock families, this grant program continues to support projects that strengthen North Lee County, surrounding communities, and improve the quality of life in our communities.

If your nonprofit organization or qualified public entity has a project that could make a lasting impact, we encourage you to learn more and apply.

➡️ Learn more and apply here⁠: https://www.northleecf.org/kowzan

Please help us spread the word by sharing this post with organizations that may be eligible!

07/29/2026

NEWSLETTER HIGHLIGHT: A Vision More Than 20 Years in the Making

The new Meller Family Health Center is more than a building. It's a testament to what can happen when a community comes together around a shared vision.

The North Lee Community Foundation and the Keokuk Area Community Foundation were honored to lead the fundraising campaign, helping raise more than $700,000 to support this transformational project. Today, that vision has become a reality, expanding access to quality healthcare for families throughout Lee County.

Read the full story on page 10 of our Spring 2026 Community Newsletter.

📖 Read the newsletter here: https://tinyurl.com/SummerNewsletter2026

07/28/2026

We’re proud to celebrate the 27 organizations receiving 2026 Eichacker/Lofton Grants and the meaningful work they’re doing across our communities!

We are proud to announce that the Keokuk Area Community Foundation has awarded $172,221 to 27 organizations through the 2026 Eichacker/Lofton Grant Fund.

These grants will support projects in arts and culture, community betterment, education, health and human services throughout Lee County, Iowa; Hancock County, Illinois; and Clark County, Missouri.

From food assistance and youth programming to public safety, recreation, recovery services and historic preservation, each funded project reflects the dedication of local organizations working to strengthen our communities.

The Eichacker/Lofton Grant Fund honors the lasting legacies of George Eichacker and Richard Lofton, two of the founding fathers of the Keokuk Area Community Foundation.

Congratulations to all 27 recipients! Read the full announcement and learn how each organization will use its grant:

https://www.keokukfoundation.org/2026recipients

07/21/2026

🌟 Board Spotlight: Chad Ward

Strong communities are built by people who choose to get involved.

In this issue of our Community Newsletter, get to know North Lee Community Foundation Board Member **Chad Ward** as he shares what inspires his commitment to serving Fort Madison and why investing in the future of the community matters to him.

Read Chad's Board Spotlight on page 5 of our Spring 2026 Community Newsletter!

📖 Read the newsletter here: https://tinyurl.com/SummerNewsletter2026

07/13/2026

🏗️ Building brighter futures for Lee County's youngest learners.

One of the six recipients of the 2026 Hellman IMPACT Grant was Community Action of Southeast Iowa, which received funding to help transform a former grocery store into a new Head Start center in Fort Madison. The project will create a centralized hub for early childhood education and family support, making these vital services more accessible for children and families throughout the community.

Read more about this inspiring project on page 6 of our Spring 2026 Community Newsletter.

📖 Read the newsletter here: https://tinyurl.com/SummerNewsletter2026

07/10/2026

✨ Our Summer 2026 Community Newsletter has arrived!
Inside you'll discover inspiring stories of generosity, community partnerships, and the people making a lasting difference across Lee County. From scholarships and grants to volunteer-driven initiatives and donor legacies, every page highlights the incredible impact that happens when a community comes together.
We hope these stories not only celebrate what's been accomplished, but also inspire you to find your own way to make a difference.
📖 Read the full newsletter here:
https://issuu.com/keokukfound.../docs/2026_summer_newsletter

06/17/2026

Local nonprofits and qualified charitable organizations, don’t forget!

Applications for the Eichacker Lofton Grant Fund are due **June 29th**. This grant opportunity helps to support meaningful projects and programs serving our community.

Apply here: https://www.keokukfoundation.org/lofton

05/15/2026

This week, we were proud to join the Keokuk Area Community Foundation and Lee County Charitable Fund in announcing the recipients of the 2026 Hellman Lee County IMPACT Grants.

These projects represent meaningful investments in children, families, accessibility, workforce stability, community service, and local history throughout Lee County.

Congratulations to all six recipient organizations and thank you for the incredible work you do in our communities every day.

04/10/2026

🎓 Last chance to apply for scholarships through the North Lee Community Foundation and Keokuk Area Community Foundation.

Multiple opportunities are available for local students pursuing a wide range of career paths, from trades and healthcare to leadership and STEM.

Don’t miss your opportunity to receive financial support for your future.

📅 Deadline: April 15
🔗 Apply now: https://www.keokukfoundation.org/scholarships

04/09/2026

🌟 NEW Scholarship Opportunity: James Steffen Leadership Scholarship

Created to honor the life and legacy of James Steffen, this scholarship supports Central Lee High School seniors who lead with character, integrity, and involvement in their school and community.

If you’re a student who steps up, gives back, and leads by example, this opportunity was created with you in mind.

📅 Apply by April 15
🔗 Learn more or apply:
https://www.keokukfoundation.org/steffen