Greater Grand Island Community Foundation Awards $47,000 in Greater Impact Grants  

Sara Tall, Program Officer of the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation discussed the recent Community Impact Grants, recently awarded. 

Grand Island, NE – The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation (GGICF) has awarded $47,000 in Greater Impact Grants to 10 Hall County nonprofits. The Greater Impact Grant Program supports unmet charitable needs and unique programming opportunities that address essential and emerging issues in the community.  

“With this support, we’re able to invest in the heart of our mission—people. Reconnecting with Habitat homeowners strengthens neighborhoods and reminds families that we’re still here, committed to their success,” said Lindsey Jurgens, Executive Director of Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity. 

GGICF CEO Melissa DeLaet added, “This program is about meeting people where they are and supporting the creative, impactful work already happening in our communities. Every grant we make reflects our belief in the people and organizations working hard to make Hall County stronger.”  

The Greater Impact Grant Program is powered by field of interest funds established by impassioned donors and GGICF. Each fund supports a specific area, such as arts, education, or health, but the Foundation is able to award funds in a flexible, responsive way based on community needs and opportunities.  

This quarter’s grantees include:  
-Grand Island Concert Association – Omaha Symphony Holiday Concert  
The Omaha Symphony will perform a magical holiday concert at Grand Island Senior High, bringing the full Omaha Orchestra experience to the community for the very first time.  
-Junior Achievement – Grand Island Future Leaders Project  
Local Junior Achievement volunteers bring real world learning to life in Grand Island Area classrooms, helping students explore careers, build financial literacy, and understand their role in the community.  
-GI Area Farmers Market – Promotion & Outreach  
A new campaign is underway to spread the word about the local fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and more available every Saturday during the summer.  
-American Red Cross – Blood Donor Technology Upgrade  
With needle-free blood testing, this high-tech upgrade transforms the donation process, making it faster, easier, and more comfortable, and encouraging more people to give the gift of life.  
-EPIC Discovery Center – Youth Advisory Council  
EPIC is launching a dynamic youth council in partnership with area schools to ensure students have a voice in shaping meaningful, engaging programs.  
-Big Brothers Big Sisters – Community, Based Program  
Adult mentors build lasting relationships with local youth through one-on-one outings and fun group activities, fostering friendship, confidence, and belonging.  
-Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska – Grand Island Outreach Program  
This initiative brings the Girl Scouts directly to local girls, empowering them with leadership skills, adventure, and a chance to explore their full potential.  
-Grand Island Area Habitat for Humanity – Home with Habitat  
A new outreach effort reconnects Habitat families through neighborhood visits, block parties, and hands-on maintenance tutorials, strengthening bonds beyond the mortgage.  
-Third City Community Clinic – Pharmaceutical Access Program  
Through the Dispensary of Hope, patients gain access to free essential medications right at their appointment, which helps remove logistic and financial barriers to support healthier lifestyles.
-Centura Public Schools – Art Room Renovation  
A creative transformation is underway at Centura Public School, where a renovated art room will inspire students with modern tools, expanded space, and bold possibilities.  

In 2024, GGICF awarded $275,650 through its competitive grant programs, including $56,820 from the Greater Impact Grant Program alone, supporting nonprofits working to strengthen the Greater Grand Island area. 

The Greater Impact Grant Program is open year-round to 501(c)(3) organizations serving Hall County. Nonprofits interested in applying can find full guidelines and deadlines at GICF.org/nonprofits/grants.

To learn more about how the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation helps strengthen Hall County, visit GICF.org.