The Okoboji Foundation separates grant applications into two request levels. Requests of $500-$24,999 are considered Community Need grants and requests $25,000 or more are 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 each application and awards grants in late Spring. Additionally, students of the Youth In Philanthropy program of the Okoboji Foundation assist in grant review of the Community Need grants, awarding dollars they have raised throughout the school year.
Tatonka Ska Trace – Rail Trail Phase III
A multi-phase project to convert the former Iowa and Northwestern Railroad into a recreational trail. This phase includes a 10-foot wide concrete trail starting at 219th Avenue in Spirit Lake and traveling west for 1.6 miles to connect to the West Okoboji Trail.
Speier Park Pickleball Complex
The construction of a dedicated 4-court pickleball complex located in Speier Park. The complex will be available to the public as a year-round recreational asset for all who live in and visit the Iowa Great Lakes.
Spirit Lake Community Park
This 18-acre park will include recreational activities such as tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, shuffleboard, basketball and a modern rubber playground. A lighted pathway featuring art sculptures will guide visitors through the park.
Midway Refresh
A midway refresh will allow visitors the ability to enjoy a fresh experience and promote economic development in the Iowa Great Lakes. Existing games and rides will be replaced and remodeled along with some new additions.
Digital Museum Interactive System
A digital interactive system for the Iowa Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame Museum that includes a 2-3-minute video with interviews, photos and clips to properly honor each of their inductees.
Over $51,800 has been granted to the following:
$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