An investment in the future: $709,000 gift from Dubuque Initiatives will support the Greater Dubuque Forever Fund
Contact
Jeff Danna
Communications Manager
jeff@dbqfoundation.org
563.588.2700
For immediate release
DUBUQUE, Iowa — For more than 40 years, the nonprofit Dubuque Initiatives has supported economic revitalization efforts across the community, such as redevelopment of the Roshek Building. Today, the organization has committed to supporting unforeseen challenges that might lie ahead with a gift of more than $709,000 to the Greater Dubuque Forever Fund.
"Dubuque is in a strong position today because of Dubuque Initiatives’ long history of community development efforts. Thanks to this generous gift, Dubuque also will be in a strong position for the future,” says Bobbi Earles, vice president of philanthropy and communications for the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, which hosts the Forever Fund.
In 2009 when IBM announced it was moving to the Tri-State area, Dubuque Initiatives structured the funding for the renovation of the Roshek Building, allowing IBM to occupy the historic space. Because both organizations had an interest in supporting the well-being of their community, Dubuque Initiatives set up a fund for IBM employees to advise as a way to connect employees with the community and fund efforts that strengthened the region.
With IBM’s exit from Dubuque in 2019, the fund became inactive. Rather than let the funds languish, Dubuque Initiatives leaders decided to transfer them to the Forever Fund.
“The mission of Dubuque Initiatives closely aligns with the Community Foundation’s goal for the Forever Fund,” says Dubuque Initiatives President Kevin Lynch. “We support efforts that build a viable, livable and equitable community, and the Community Foundation, through the Forever Fund, has the tools to build a Dubuque region where all people can thrive.”
The Forever Fund provides a way for people today to help address tomorrow’s needs — whatever they might be. As an endowment, it will continue growing forever, and the flexible dollars it will provide can help address critical and emerging issues, ultimately building a vibrant and prosperous region.
“All community members can invest in the future of our community with a gift to the Forever Fund,” Earles says. “When we all give what we can, we can make a positive difference today, tomorrow and forever.”
For more information or to make a gift, visit dbqfoundation.org/forever. Or, contact Bobbi Earles at bobbi@dbqfoundation.org.
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The Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque envisions a vibrant and inclusive Dubuque region where everyone can thrive. Since 2002, we have inspired people to give back to their community, and we turn this generosity into lasting change across our region, increasing access to resources and opportunities that help all people succeed.
Visit dbqfoundation.org to learn about the many ways we are building a strong, thriving Greater Dubuque for all.