Pella, Iowa – The Pella Rolscreen Foundation reported a record year for charitable giving in 2025, contributing over $2.2 million in grants and employee matching gifts. This significant figure represents a substantial increase in the foundation’s philanthropic efforts, supporting a diverse range of community-focused projects and major regional investments. The foundation, closely tied to Pella Corporation, directs its funding toward communities where Pella’s employees live and operate, prioritizing organizations with a 501(c)(3) non-profit status or governmental entities.
The substantial donation underscores Pella Corporation’s commitment to the communities it serves, extending beyond its manufacturing footprint. The foundation’s giving strategy focuses on bolstering local initiatives, enhancing quality of life and addressing critical needs within these areas. This record-breaking contribution comes as Pella Corporation itself celebrates its centennial anniversary, marked by several community-facing projects, including a newly redesigned Pella Museum and the introduction of a commemorative trolley.
Supporting Community Enrichment and Regional Growth
A significant portion of the $2.2 million was allocated to projects designed to enhance community life. Among these was the launch of the new Pella Trolley No. 1925, a gift from the Pella Rolscreen Foundation to the Pella Historical Museums. According to the Business Record, the trolley will provide free shuttle service connecting downtown Pella with the Pella Corp. Museum, facilitating access to the museum’s newly renovated exhibits, including original windows. Enhancements to the Pella Plaza at the Iowa State Fair also received funding, aiming to improve the visitor experience at this popular annual event.
Beyond these visible projects, the foundation also expanded its Joan Kuyper Farver Spirit Awards, recognizing individuals who embody community spirit and volunteerism. The foundation reported record participation in its employee volunteer recognition program, demonstrating a strong culture of giving back within Pella Corporation. These initiatives highlight the foundation’s dedication to fostering a sense of community and celebrating local heroes.
Major Investments in Healthcare and Essential Services
The Pella Rolscreen Foundation’s generosity extended to substantial investments in critical regional infrastructure. A notable commitment of $500,000 was pledged toward a new regional cancer care center in Pella, addressing a vital healthcare need in the area. This pledge demonstrates a commitment to improving access to specialized medical care for residents of Pella and surrounding communities. The Business Record reported this significant contribution as part of the foundation’s broader philanthropic efforts.
Further support was directed towards emergency services and arts facilities in various regions served by Pella Corporation. Even as specific details regarding these contributions were not immediately available, they underscore the foundation’s commitment to a diverse range of community needs. This broad approach to giving reflects a desire to support organizations that enhance the overall well-being of the communities where Pella’s team members reside.
Grant Application Process and Priorities
The Pella Rolscreen Foundation welcomes grant requests from qualified non-profit organizations and governmental entities operating in communities with Pella Corporation manufacturing plants. According to the foundation’s grant guidelines, proposals should align with the foundation’s stated purpose and address specific community priorities. The foundation reviews applications semi-annually, with deadlines of May 1 and November 1 each year.
Generally, large grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and typically do not exceed 25 percent of the total project cost. The foundation does not provide grants directly to individuals, except through approved scholarship programs. Applicants are required to utilize an online application process through YourCause/Blackbaud, creating an account to submit their proposals. Support for the online system is available via [email protected], while general grant program inquiries can be directed to [email protected].
Eligibility and Focus Areas
To be eligible for funding, organizations must be registered as 501(c)(3) public non-profits or be governmental entities located in communities where Pella Corporation maintains manufacturing facilities. The foundation’s priorities, as outlined in its Purpose statement, guide its funding decisions. While specific priority areas were not detailed in available sources, the recent grant allocations suggest a focus on community development, healthcare, arts and culture, and emergency services.
Volunteerism and Employee Engagement
Beyond financial contributions, Pella Corporation employees actively contribute to their communities through volunteer work. In 2025, employees collectively completed nearly 30,000 volunteer hours, demonstrating a strong commitment to civic engagement. This dedication to volunteerism complements the foundation’s grantmaking efforts, creating a holistic approach to community support. The company’s volunteer recognition program further incentivizes and celebrates employee contributions.
The combination of substantial financial grants and significant employee volunteer hours underscores Pella Corporation’s and the Pella Rolscreen Foundation’s deep commitment to the communities they serve. This multifaceted approach to philanthropy aims to create lasting positive impact and enhance the quality of life for residents in these areas.
Looking Ahead
The Pella Rolscreen Foundation’s next grant application deadline is May 1, 2026. Organizations meeting the eligibility criteria are encouraged to submit proposals addressing community needs aligned with the foundation’s priorities. Further information and application details are available on the Pella Rolscreen Foundation website: https://pellarolscreen.com/grant-guidelines/. The foundation’s continued commitment to philanthropic giving promises to further strengthen the communities it serves in the years to reach.
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