Foundation’s award reflects community’s spirit

By Les Garner

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I have often said the role of The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation is much like the role of a quilter. We help stitch our community together by connecting individuals, groups and organizations. The tapestry that is created is strong, resilient and prepared for future challenges.

Certainly, this was the role we played in the days, weeks and months that followed the Floods of 2008. In the wake of that disaster, GCRCF worked hard to help restore the fabric of our community. Through our local non-profit organizations, we provided support to individuals directly affected by the flood, made sure that non-profits had the necessary resources to respond and helped rehabilitate neighborhoods for families displaced by the water.

Almost four years later - and thanks to the support of thousands of donors from Iowa and around the world - GCRCF has awarded more than $14 million in flood-related grants and helped more than 70 local organizations get back on their feet.

On March 31, GCRCF was recognized for its role in flood recovery as Outstanding Foundation of 2012 by the Association of Fundraising Professionals at its international conference in Vancouver, British Columbia.

The AFP award is given to one foundation in North America each year that demonstrates outstanding commitment through financial support, innovation, encouragement and motivation of others. Past winners include such outstanding foundations as the John D. and Catherine T.

MacArthur Foundation and The Kresge Foundation.

It was not only a very proud moment for us, but it was also a great tribute to our community. It is a tribute to our generous residents, our strong non-profit organizations and our many partners in philanthropy.

Today, Cedar Rapids has the opportunity to realize a brighter future than ever before, and the GCRCF continues to play a vital role in that effort. We have returned our focus to our mission of connecting donors to important causes and awarding grants that support innovation, sustainability and capacity-building for non-profits. We help individuals and families create legacies and non-profits build their endowments.

The GCRCF is working every day to stitch the “quilt” that is our community in ways that will make this a better place to live.

We are dedicated to the work we do and the community we represent. We are also very grateful to the many donors, businesses and non-profits that have supported our efforts along the way - and we are passionate about reciprocating that support.

And while we appreciate our recent recognition, we know that this award is really a tribute to the remarkable people we serve. You were handed the worst - and in turn, gave your best. We are proud to be your community foundation.

Les Garner is president & CEO of The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. Comments: lgarner50@gmail.com