(Cedar Rapids, Iowa) – The TrueNorth Legacy Foundation (TNLF) has announced a new partnership with the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, establishing the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation Endowment Fund, a donor-advised fund that will continue supporting the communities where TrueNorth and First MainStreet colleagues live and work. The partnership debuts with the TNLF’s fourth annual grant cycle, awarding $360,000 to 13 organizations across five states in 2026.
After several years operating as a private foundation, the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation transitioned its charitable giving to a donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation. This structure enables the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation to remain focused on its philanthropic mission while benefiting from the Community Foundation's resources and long-term expertise.
"I'm continually inspired by how many of our colleagues take the time to nominate organizations making a real difference in their communities," said Anne Parmley, Community Impact Director and TrueNorth Legacy Foundation Board Member. "This year's partnership with the Community Foundation strengthens our ability to act on those nominations, and I'm proud of the impact these 13 organizations will have."
Grant recipients were selected based on three key criteria: 1) Demonstrated need and future vision of a transformational gift; 2) Alignment with the Legacy Foundation’s core pillars of Children & Education, Vibrant Communities, and Emergency Preparedness & Response; and 3) Championed from within the TrueNorth Companies and First Mainstreet Insurance colleagues.
Thanks to the generosity of its stakeholders and colleagues, the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation is proud to support the following organizations and community initiatives in 2026:
"We are excited to welcome the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation Endowment Fund to the Community Foundation," said Karla Twedt-Ball, president and CEO of the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. "TrueNorth has a long history of investing in our community, and this transition reflects a thoughtful approach to philanthropy that combines their leadership and vision with our expertise in charitable stewardship. We look forward to partnering with the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation to help maximize the impact of their generosity for years to come."
Established in 2021, the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation furthers TrueNorth Companies' commitment to community, honoring and perpetuating the philanthropic legacy of our founders for years to come. In 2026, TrueNorth transitioned its charitable giving to the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation Endowment Fund, a donor-advised fund established at the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. We take great pride in ensuring grants are provided to causes demonstrating future vision and transformational projects that will enhance organizational impact and address community needs.
To learn more, please visit www.TNLegacyFoundation.org.
The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports Linn County, Iowa by stewarding charitable assets and awarding grants to address community needs and opportunities. The Community Foundation is a convenor and partner to donors, funders, and nonprofit organizations working together to build vibrant and inclusive communities where all people can thrive. Founded in 1949 as the Community Welfare Foundation, we became a public community foundation in 1992. Today, we steward more than $260 million in charitable assets across more than 1,000 funds, generating grants for the greater good of Linn County.
Our Vision: A vibrant and inclusive Linn County where all people thrive.
Our Mission: To strengthen our community through philanthropy.
For more information on the Community Foundation, visit www.gcrcf.org or visit Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.