NEW Shabbona-Lee Community Fund Created

Donors Darryl and Ellen Kupecz created a new community Fund to support long-term needs in Shabbona and Lee. Their generosity will build permanent resources that strengthen local priorities and future opportunities in both communities.

👉 Explore the story behind the Fund >

Thank you, Photine!

We proudly recognize Photine Liakos for her three years of dedicated service on the Community Foundation Board of Directors, representing the Sycamore community.

👉 Read our thank-you to Photine >

NEW Haines Fund Created

Donors Michael and Lana Haines created a new Fund to support education, the environment, and caring for neighbors. Their generosity will support three local organizations for years to come.

👉 View the full Fund story >

Scholarships Now Open

Students can now apply for more than 100 scholarship opportunities using one simple Universal Scholarship Application. Applications remain open through April 1 for the 2026 academic year, supported by generous local donors.

👉 Apply for scholarships or learn more >

Scholarship Highlight

Applications are open for the 2026 Spinoso Masters Scholarship, supported by the generosity of John and Vivian Spinoso. The scholarship offers up to $10,000 for eligible students pursuing post-undergraduate studies.

👉 Explore Spinoso Masters Scholarship information >

Thank you, Dahlia!

We proudly recognize Dahlia Roman for her three years of dedicated service on the Community Foundation Board of Directors, representing the DeKalb community.

👉 Read our thank-you to Dahlia >

Spring Grants Open

Applications are open for the following grant programs. Nonprofit and public sector organizations are encouraged to apply.

• Build the Future Grants - Support projects involving the construction of new facilities or the expansion of physical spaces. Deadline April 1.
  
• Community Needs Grants - Support the charitable needs and efforts of local nonprofit and public sector organizations. Deadline March 1.
  
• Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants - Support music education for nonprofit and public sector organizations throughout the greater Chicagoland area. Deadline March 1.

Nonprofit Registration - Give DeKalb County 2026

Eligible DCNP members can register for Give DeKalb County 2026 before the April 1 deadline. The 24-hour online giving day takes place on May 7, and donors can support all participating nonprofits by giving to the Bonus Pool.

👉 Register your nonprofit >

Websites for Good Recipient

Congratulations to 4-C Community Coordinated Child Care, the 2025 recipient of the Websites for Good grant. This generous partnership with Green Closet Creative will support a modern, user-friendly website to strengthen their impact.

👉 Explore the grant and recipient details >

Choosing the Right Fund

Charitable giving looks different for everyone, and the right type of Fund can help you reach your goals more effectively. Whether you want flexibility, long-term support, or focused impact, several Fund options can support your priorities.

👉 Explore Fund options that fit your goals >