LEADERSHIP LETTER

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa has always focused on its impact on communities and people. Throughout our 66-year history, we have evolved to meet the ever-changing needs of our communities. This past year has been one of evolution. We have spent significant time listening, learning, and exploring our role in our region. It has been a time of self-examination of our history, growth, and, ultimately, the impact we create. We have learned that we make a significant difference, but our impact must grow beyond grantmaking. CFNEIA can and must be a community connector and bolder partner for good. 

We have started this work. We continue taking action to remove barriers to racial equity. We are creating deeper connections with our affiliate foundations. We are building greater trust with our nonprofit partners. But, as we do more and expand our role as a community leader, we know how the impact is implemented is equally crucial to its effect. Everything we do must reflect our core beliefs, and our partners must clearly understand who we are. Our new values of collaboration, equity, leadership, and trust are this guide. They align our principles with our understanding, thinking, and actions. 

Through these pillars, our impact continues to grow. With the support of partners like you, CFNEIA granted $6.85 million in 2022 to nonprofits improving the quality of life for all people. In a tumultuous market year, our over $136 million in assets continue to ensure we will be here for good for our communities. 

Our values unite us, and the impact we make together will have an everlasting effect on our communities. Thank you for inspiring us.