Aureon is thrilled to share that its Community Development Grant Program has distributed $30,000 in funding to support nine fantastic community projects in the first half of 2024. This program reflects Aureon’s commitment to giving back, offering up to $20,000 each quarter to help local groups make a difference.

Among the recipients is the Union County Development Association in Creston, IA, which received $5,000 to develop a brand identity for its Uptown District. This funding will help create a new logo and wayfinding designs to make the area more attractive and cohesive.

In Tama, IA, the Tama Toledo Chamber of Commerce was awarded $5,000 for the “Jolly Lights at the Heights” holiday event. This grant will help light up the town and support local businesses during the festive season, bringing joy to the community and boosting economic activity.

Dyersville Child Care Center received $5,000 to purchase toddler feeding equipment for the upcoming Michael and Jean Knepper Child Care Center. The new facility, opening soon, will offer 250 childcare spaces, addressing a significant need for quality early childhood care in the area.

DMACC Newton Campus also benefited from the grant program, receiving $5,000 for landscaping at the Legacy Plaza Greenspace. This five-acre space will serve as both an outdoor classroom for students and a venue for community events.

Southwestern Community College was given $5,000, which was split between two important projects. The funds will be used to install a new security system at the Creston campus and to purchase new training equipment for the Applied Engineering Technology program at the Osceola campus.

Lastly, the Chariton Valley Regional Housing Trust Fund in Albia, IA, received $5,000 to support affordable housing projects in the region. This grant will help the organization reach a funding milestone, unlocking additional support from the Iowa Finance Authority.

Launched in January 2024, Aureon’s Community Development Grant Program aims to provide nonprofits with financial support for projects that have a meaningful impact. Grants range from $1,500 to $5,000 and can be used for various purposes, from buying equipment to covering project costs.

Carey Stover, Aureon’s Chief Experience Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the program: “It’s been amazing to see the positive effects these grants are having. We’re eager to continue supporting these incredible projects and look forward to seeing even more community-driven success stories.”

Applications for the third quarter of 2024 are now open. Nonprofits in Aureon’s service areas are encouraged to apply by September 30, 2024, for a chance to secure funding for their initiatives.

For more information and to apply, visit www.aureon.com/about/community.