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OUR IMPACT

Since 1988, the Okoboji Foundation has granted over $6.33M to 89 nonprofits in the Lakes community to be used to create and sustain vital capital projects.

The Okoboji Foundation considers projects at two giving levels. Requests of $500-$24,999 are considered “community need grants” and requests of $25,000 or more are considered “capacity building requests.” Grant applications are accepted from January 1st to March 1st each year. A committee, comprised of board members and other engaged community members, reviews the applications and makes aware decisions in late spring.

Additionally, students of the Youth In Philanthropy program of the Okoboji Foundation assist in the grant review of “community need grants,” awarding dollars they have raised throughout the school year.

2025 CAPACITY BUILDING GRANT RECIPIENTS

Dickinson County Conservation Board & Nature Center

$88,000

Nature Play Area

To better serve the community and meet the evolving needs of the public, the Dickinson County Conservation Board is embracing innovative approaches to learning and development. By adding an exciting nature play area to the campus, the Nature Center is creating a unique space for families to explore and learn together.

Designed with natural elements like log climbers, boulders, sand and water features, and native plants, this space offers more than just a place to play — it provides an environment that fosters physical activity, sparks creativity, and supports mental and social growth for children of all ages.

City of Lake Park

$75,000

City Park Renovation Project

The City of Lake Park envisions creating a vibrant destination that serves as both a community gathering space and a source of local pride. Designed to encourage walking, biking, and exploration, this space will welcome residents and visitors of all ages while offering opportunities to learn about the city’s past and its future.

Dickinson County Trails

$75,000

Clay County Connection Phase I & II

Clay County Connection Phase I & II involves construction of a 10-foot wide concrete, multi-use recreational trail that will add an additional 3.5 miles to the Spine Trail that runs through the heart of the Iowa Great Lakes. The project is part of the Iowa Great Lakes Connection, a trail of statewide significance, that spans 135 miles and connects several lakes and existing trails in Northwest Iowa. When complete, the connection between Dickinson and Clay Counties will provide a trail that links three counties in two states and eight municipalities, thereby extending recreational opportunities to several more communities in the region.

Okoboji Protective Association

$50,000

Save Turtle Lake

The Save Turtle Lake project will dredge Turtle Lake and adjacent canals from its current depth of 2 to 4 feet to its original depth of eight to ten feet, followed by shoreline retention measures including rip rap installation and planting of native grasses. Successful implementation of the project will improve water quality, restore habitat to better support native wildlife, prevent further sediment spillage into West Lake Okoboji, and enhance the public’s access to experience fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.

Humane Society of Northwest Iowa

$50,000

Reimaging HSNWIA for the Next Generation

This project is dedicated to enhancing animal welfare services by improving medical care, upgrading shelter facilities, and strengthening adoption initiatives. These efforts directly improve the well-being of companion animals, giving them a greater chance at finding permanent, loving homes while promoting responsible pet ownership throughout the community.

This support allows for expanded reach, improved health outcomes, and a higher quality of care for pets in need — ensuring every animal has the opportunity for a healthier, happier future.

City of Milford

$25,000

Florence Park Improvement Project

The Florence Park Improvement Project aims to enhance the park’s infrastructure and accessibility while honoring its rich history as a central gathering place for the Milford community. Since its establishment in 1895, Florence Park has been a beloved hub for local traditions and events, including the Okoboji Cycling Classic, Pioneer Days, and countless family and community celebrations.

These improvements will ensure the park remains a safe, welcoming, and versatile space for generations to come — supporting future events, fostering community connections, and preserving the park’s legacy as a treasured public resource.

City of Orleans

$24,689

Beach Avenue Access Improvement

The Beach Avenue Access Upgrade Project focuses on improving accessibility and enhancing recreational opportunities for the community. Planned improvements include a dock with a kayak and paddleboard launch, picnic tables, benches, a bike rack, fishing pole holders, and paved parking with designated handicapped spaces.

To further support sustainability, a stormwater management pond will be added to help protect water quality. These enhancements will make the area more inviting and visible, encouraging activities such as kayaking, fishing, and simply enjoying the scenic lake views.

Located near the Fish Hatchery, which provides restroom facilities, the site is ideal for future partnerships and connections — including potential trail extensions to Isthmus Park or further east — creating a seamless, continuous recreational experience.

Disaster Recovery Fund Grantees

Over $70,000 has been granted to the following: 

$10,000 – Boys Town Camp Okoboji

$7,500 – Lutheran Lakeside Camp Association

$15,500 – Bedell Family YMCA, Camp Foster

$2,410 – Dickinson County Fair Board

$6,500 – Historic Arnolds Park

$850 – Rock ‘n Roll Music Association

$4,000 – Lakes Area Hockey Association 

$8,800 – Lakes Regional Healthcare Foundation 

$2,800 – Respite Angels

$9,000 – Voluntary Action Center

$2,000 – Well Food Pantry