At the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation, 2024 was a year of growth and forward momentum. Guided by our mission to empower people to turn their passion into purpose, we have pushed Full Steam Ahead with unwavering commitment. Together with our donors, fund holders, nonprofit partners, and community leaders, we have worked to create lasting legacies that strengthen the future of Hall County and beyond.
Through the Fund for Greater Grand Island and our many community and affiliate partnerships, we have provided vital resources that fuel innovation, security,
and opportunity. From investing in local students through scholarships to supporting nonprofit organizations that make a difference every day, our work is driven by the belief that when we invest in people, we invest in the future, turning passions into purpose.
As we reflect on the past year’s successes and look ahead to new possibilities, we are grateful for the generosity and vision of those who make this work possible. This report is a testament to what we have achieved together—and a promise that we will continue moving forward full steam ahead.
Programs Continue to Grow and Expand
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gifts received in 2024$5,136,440 -
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total assets$38,614,321 -
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241 Total Funds10 New funds -
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Grants Awarded$3,215,656 -
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scholarships awarded$269,600
Once available, a breakdown of the 2024 Revenue and Expenses will be available at gicf.org .
Empowering Impact Through Unrestricted Giving
In 2023, our donors helped us establish the Fund for Greater Grand Island, an unrestricted endowment designed to provide flexible support for the community’s most pressing needs. In 2024, the fund grew by 7%, enhancing our ability to respond to challenges and opportunities. Donors’ support ensures that our foundation can continue enhancing the quality of life for all who call the Greater Grand Island area home.
Contributions to the Fund for Greater Grand Island empower us to:
Address Critical Needs
Responding to urgent community challenges, including childcare, housing, and other identified priorities.
Honor the Past, Inspire the Future
Partnering with the Stuhr Museum Foundation to restore the Pawnee Earth Lodge, an authentic and historic landmark that offers a powerful educational experience and a connection to our shared heritage.
Enrich Public Spaces
Bringing inclusive recreation to life at the Pirnie Inclusive Playground and enhancing community recreation with new bike and walking paths, including those around the Alda ball fields through a grant to the Village of Alda.
Strengthen Mentorship Programs
Supporting Bigs in Badges, a new Big Brothers Big Sisters initiative that fosters mentorship between first responders and youth in our community.
A Legacy of Community Enrichment
Arthur “Art” Klinkacek was a dedicated farmer who worked the land with passion and deep respect. Art's foresight in establishing an endowed fund reflects his dedication to the well-being of our community. His enduring generosity ensures that organizations and projects that enrich others will continue to thrive for generations.
As the Arthur Klinkacek Community Enrichment Fund continues to grow since its inception in 2018, so too does its impact, reminding us all of the power of investing in our passions.
The purpose of the Arthur Klinkacek Fund is simple yet powerful: to preserve and enrich the community. The fund addresses local needs and fosters growth by providing vital resources for impactful projects. The first being a $25,000 grant to the Cairo Community Foundation to install the Arthur Klinkacek Memorial playground at the North Ball Fields in Cairo. Additionally, the Arthur Klinkacek Fund has funded local projects and programs including the Youth Philanthropy Board, EPIC Discovery Center, Pirnie Inclusive Playground, Wood River Stick Creek Kids Child Development Center, and so many more.
We are honored to steward Art's legacy and witness the positive change it creates every day.
Empowering Future Innovators Through Scholarships
At the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation, we believe that investing in education is investing in the future. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, in 2024, we awarded 158 scholarships to students with a passion and dedication for continuing their education. These scholarships help alleviate financial barriers and punch their ticket to higher education.
In celebration of our 2024 theme, Full STEAM Ahead, these are some of our scholarships that provide opportunities for students to pursue careers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).
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The Jami Harper Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival Scholarship Fund benefits a Nebraska high school senior who wants to pursue a water resources-related field of study. Since 2012, this scholarship has assisted 13 students towards their education.
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The Rick Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund is an endowed scholarship fund established in honor of Sgt. Richard Thoma “Rick” Smith in 2013. In its lifetime, this fund has been awarded to 11 students pursuing an Automotive, Mechanics or Diesel Technology field of study.
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The James P. and Joy Y. Zana Family Scholarship Fund was inspired by their granddaughter’s passion for the arts. It has benefited 68 students pursuing their passion for the arts with over $53,000 in scholarships since its inception.
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The Bud and Gloria Wolbach Scholarship Fund helps graduating high school seniors in Hall County pursue a degree in engineering. First awarded in 2013 as one $1,000 scholarship, this fund has grown to three $5,000 scholarships, giving out $100,000 in its lifetime.
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Students who plan to major in Business, Finance, or Accounting can benefit from The Bill Marshall Academic/Athletic Scholarship which was created by the Marshall Family. This relatively new scholarship has awarded $10,000 to students since 2022.
On Track to Impact Guiding others to Brighter Stations
The spirit of lifelong learning lives on in Grand Island through the Ralph and Lorraine Laskowski Endowment Fund. Established in 2019 by Ralph to honor his beloved wife Lorraine and their legacy together, this fund continues their shared dedication to education, literacy, and the power of knowledge. The fund provides critical support to the Grand Island Public Library and the Literacy Council of Grand Island, granting the combined agencies nearly $74,000 in the last five years.
Through this support, the library has expanded its resources and programming, offering more opportunities for learning and discovery. The Literacy Council can keep its mission of empowering individuals through literacy education on track, ensuring their students can achieve their educational goals.
The impact of Ralph and Lorraine’s legacy is reflected in the countless individuals who have benefited from these programs. From adult learners gaining essential literacy skills to children discovering the joy of reading, their dedication to education inspires and uplifts the community.
Investing in Innovation The Community Foundation’s Commitment to EPIC Ideas
In November 2024, the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation proudly awarded its largest-ever discretionary grant—$100,000—to the EPIC Discovery Center. This transformative investment was made possible through the Arthur E. Klinkacek Community Enrichment Fund.
The EPIC Discovery Center’s mission, to inspire creativity and learning through play-based, STEAM-focused (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) exhibits, resonates deeply with our dedication to community enrichment. Aligned with the Foundation’s strategic plan to support transformative projects, this initiative stands as a testament to the power of collective vision and collaboration.
What began as a steering committee organized by the Foundation grew into a community-driven movement. Years of dedication, leadership, and unwavering support culminated in a $13.2 million capital campaign, transforming the centrally located armory building into a state-of-the-art facility designed to welcome children and teens from all backgrounds.
By investing in EPIC, we are removing barriers and expanding opportunities for young minds to explore, grow, and thrive.
Fueling Forward Motion A Year of Milestones for YPB
Since its inception in 2018, the Youth Philanthropy Board (YPB) has been a powerful force for positive change in Hall County. This year, the 2023-24 seniors and juniors are laying tracks for a bold future.
In the first half of the year, YPB juniors fueled progress with purpose, awarding $20,000 in grants to organizations making a difference for all Hall County Youth.
The senior class demonstrated incredible dedication and generosity, raising an impressive $36,857 through a letter-writing campaign, fundraisers, and heartfelt personal asks. Their efforts not only supported immediate needs but also ensured a sustainable future for YPB by adding to the program’s endowment, now standing at $60,000.
Their legacy is one of leadership, innovation, and determination — a train of changemakers igniting impact at every stop!
- Big Brothers Big Sisters received $4,000 to enhance their school-based mentoring program.
- Central Plains Center for Services was awarded $6,000 to fund their Possibilities to Prosperity Project.
- First Light Child Advocacy Center received $5,000 to continue their advocacy and support services for child victims.
- Unite & Thrive was granted $5,000 to supply educational resources and fund their professional coordinator team.
2024 YPB Grants
Moving Philanthropy Forward Conversations That Inspire Community Action
The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation is dedicated to inspiring generosity and strengthening the community through philanthropy, education, and collaboration. Over the past year, we have provided valuable learning opportunities for donors, professionals, and the broader community.
Hometown Highlights
Hometown Highlights: The Now and Next event, held in August 2024, was designed to showcase exciting community developments and projects. Local leaders gave brief presentations on initiatives that are shaping Grand Island’s future. Mayor Roger Steel discussed the city’s involvement with the development of Camp Augustine. Alison Larson, the Executive Director of EPIC Discovery Center, gave updates on their construction and fundraising efforts. Tonja Brown shared the pros of voting for Grand Island to have a Good Life District. Finally, Roger Bullington from Chief Construction gave insight and updates on the Conestoga Marketplace renovation. Due to the overwhelmingly positive response, we plan to make Hometown Highlights a biannual event!
Community Foundation Week
To celebrate Community Foundation Week in November, GGICF hosted estate planning seminars, offering insights into charitable giving strategies to CPAs, attorneys, financial planners and community members. GGICF also partnered with the Grand Island Chamber for a Business After Hours event, connecting businesses, nonprofits, and community members to celebrate the power of philanthropy.
All Aboard for Stolley Park
Propelling Stolley Park’s Vision with Community Support
In 2003, when Kids Kingdom was built at Stolley Park, there were plans to develop the area inside the train tracks. Now, 22 years later, a dedicated group of volunteers, along with the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation and other community partners, have come together to bring exciting changes to Stolley Park.
The Stolley Park train is a favorite attraction in Grand Island, bringing joy to over 12,000 visitors each year. To make this beloved experience even better, the All Aboard for Stolley Park committee will raise $750,000 for exciting improvements.
This plan includes adding features like tunnels and signals for the train, as well as grassy play areas, walking and biking paths, and beautiful landscaping to make the park more enjoyable for everyone.
“With the help of the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation, we are able to concentrate on raising money knowing that our funds are in a safe place,” says committee chair, Becky Gdowski. “Day by day, the committee’s goal of $750,000 edges closer to becoming a reality thanks to other partnerships with the Grand Island Parks and Recreation Department and our relentless, passionate volunteers. It has truly been a heartwarming all aboard, all community effort!”
The seeds of generosity sown today will continue growing, strengthening communities and transforming lives for generations. Please join us in nurturing new opportunities, fostering hope, and ensuring that every gift leaves a thriving legacy.
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Tina Moreno Administration and Scholarship Coordinator
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Joeli Walrath Development Officer
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Dori Wanitschke Financial Officer
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Melissa DeLaetChief Executive Officer
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Megan Vaughn Communications Officer
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Sara Tall Program Officer
