Community Foundation challenges five Quad Cities nonprofits to raise $15,000 each

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Earlier this year, the Quad Cities Community Foundation announced a challenge grant opportunity to instigate charitable giving for Quad Cities nonprofits. This is the second year in a row the Community Foundation has offered the opportunity to both recognize the strength of organizations that serve our community while navigating an ever-evolving funding landscape.

Five organizations representing various sizes, service areas and issues have been selected—and challenged—to raise $15,000 through new or increased giving from other sources between now and December 31, 2018. The 2018 Community Impact Fund Challenge Grants provide flexible funds that support nonprofits in the Quad Cities.

“At the Community Foundation, every single day we come face to face with people all across our community who are creatively partnering with donors—and in some cases, the Community Foundation—to adapt to an ever-changing fundraising landscape,” said Kelly Thompson, vice president of grantmaking and community initiatives. “Through this year’s five challenge grants, we hope to amplify good work happening in the Quad Cities and champion their efforts to transform our region.” 

Thompson noted that the gifts donors have made to Community Foundation will now inspire additional charitable gifts, having a total impact of $150,000 on the five organizations participating in the challenge.

Thirty-six nonprofits applied for challenge grants. This year’s recipients are:

  • Putnam Museum and Science Center

  • Project Renewal

  • Nahant Marsh Education Center

  • River Bend Foodbank

  • Transitions Mental Health Services

Dollars awarded through this grant are made possible by the Community Impact Fund. This endowed fund has grown to over $13 million thanks to the generosity of donors across the region. The fund allows the Community Foundation to be creative and flexible in responding to the greatest needs and the most promising opportunities in the community as they arise and vary from year to year.