CFGD Celebrates New Milestones: $30 Million in Assets and $3.8 Million in Grants

As the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque (CFGD) approaches its 10th anniversary, the tri-states’ resource for charitably minded individuals, families, corporations and nonprofits is already celebrating some impressive milestones: In 2011, the Foundation awarded $3.8 million grants and its assets have now topped $30 million.

As of December 31, 2011, the Foundation awarded $3.8 million in grants through its Community Impact Fund, donor advised funds and designated endowments. Its assets reached the $30 million mark shortly after the beginning of 2012.

"CFGD is a relatively young foundation but it has grown at an astonishing pace,” says Phil Ruppel, chair of the CFGD Board of Directors. “This success speaks to the generosity of our donors and the commitment of local nonprofits, both of which make it possible for the Foundation to provide the community leadership and nonprofit support essential for the future of our region.”

The Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque went public in October of 2002 with $750,000 in assets donated by four founding supporters: American Trust & Savings Bank; Diamond Jo Casino; Dubuque Bank & Trust; and Medical Associates Clinic & Health Plans. Last year, the Foundation served 1,700 donors who gave a total of $8.6 million.

Nancy Van Milligen, Community Foundation president and CEO, adds that the exceptional growth of the Foundation would not be possible without strong investment returns and the continued support of long-time donors and new members of the Community Foundation family.

"As experts in philanthropy, we provide strategic advice to donors while simultaneously addressing this region’s problems through our own grantmaking and community initiatives, such as Every Child/ Every Promise and Green and Healthy Homes.  Every day, we are working to learn more about the needs of our community in areas ranging from early childhood education to the arts.”

The Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque will kick off its 10th year anniversary celebration this October.