John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation
/OVERVIEW: The John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation supports arts and culture, family recreation, and youth development and education in north-central Iowa.
IP TAKE: This is an accessible family funder for Iowa nonprofits that has four opportunities for grantmaking each year.
PROFILE: Established in 1970, the John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation is a private family foundation based in Forest City, Iowa. The Hanson couple founded Winnebago Industries in 1962 and Manufacturers Bank & Trust Company in 1967. The foundation aims to "support, strengthen, and enhance the quality of life in Forest City and its neighboring communities now and for future generations.” It funds local efforts for arts and culture, family recreation, and youth development and education.
Grants for Arts and Culture, K-12 Education, and Community Development
The John K. and Luise V. Hanson Foundation’s arts and culture grantmaking extends to arts centers, leadership programs, and historical societies. Family recreation grants go to the local YMCAs, aquatic centers, playgrounds, and bike trails. Youth-focused grants have gone to Eagle Scout projects, camps, a sailing school, and educational technologies. The foundation also has ties to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Hanson typically provides program and project support rather than general operating support or award endowments.
Past local grantees include the Charlie Brown Community Day Care, Northern Lights Alliance for the Homeless, and the Lake Mills Family Fitness Center.
Important Grant Details
Grants range between about $1,000 and $100,000. Learn more about this funder’s local giving on the grants awarded page of the funder’s website. Grantmaking focuses on north-central Iowa and most specifically on Forest City, Iowa.
This foundation accepts unsolicited grant applications from nonprofits via mail. The funder has quarterly deadlines, which are March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1. Applicants will receive a decision within 60 days of the deadline. Direct general questions to the staff at 641-582-2825.
PEOPLE:
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