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.
Camp Foster Airnasium
This open-air gymnasium will provide
inviting, high-quality engagement opportunities year-round for school groups,
youth groups, businesses, families, and individuals in the Iowa Great Lakes
Region.
Art Smart Children’s Interactive Gallery Renovation
To completely renovate the Art Smart Children’s Interactive Gallery into a low-tech, hands-on learning experience that engages children, teens, and parents. Designing a space that reflects the mission of the Pearson Lakes Art Center and encompasses the four departments of the art center including visual arts, performing arts, art education and culinary arts.
Tatanka Ska Trace Phase IV
Tatanka Ska Trace is a multi-phase project to convert the former railroad into a recreational trail that spans 37 miles across Dickinson and Osceola Counties. Phase IV includes three segments totaling 7.5 miles that will connect Lake Park and Montgomery to Spirit Lake.
Train Tunnel Rebuild
The Historic Arnolds Park train has provided many generations of children thrills and fond memories and the tunnel is an integral part of the train ride experience. The tunnel on the iconic park train needs to be rebuilt for safety and protection from weather. This project will allow many more generations of families to share this Okoboji experience together.
Roof Replacement
For the Dickinson County Historical Society and Museum to replace the aged roof on the 1883 depot building.
Spirit Lake Fish Hatchery Wheelchair Lift
To install a vertical wheelchair lift into the hatchery tank room. Adding a vertical wheelchair lift by the visitor stairs will allow access into the tank room to view hatchery fish production.
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