NEW NIU Band Scholarship Fund Pays It Forward

We are proud to introduce the Michael Embrey Band Scholarship Fund — a new opportunity to support NIU students who are passionate about music and leadership. This scholarship directly benefits students involved in the NIU Marching Band program, helping them continue to perform, grow, and inspire.

Fund story and details >

Happy Fundiversary!

In 2024, we proudly celebrated 54 milestone Fundiversaries — honoring the lasting impact of Funds that continue to make a difference. On behalf of everyone who benefits from this support, thank you for your generosity and commitment to making a difference.

Funds recognized for an anniversary >

2025 Scholarships - Update

We are excited to announce the launch of a newly redesigned Universal Scholarship Application in 2025, along with a single application cycle. This streamlined process simplifies access to multiple scholarship opportunities through one convenient online form. The application period for scholarships is February 1 - April 1, 2025.

Scholarship information and updates >

Grant Opportunities

Spring 2025 Grant Programs

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

• Build the Future Grants - Provide essential support for projects involving the construction of new facilities or the expansion of physical spaces. Currently open for appointments.

• Community Needs Grants - Support the charitable needs and efforts of local nonprofit and public sector organizations. Jan. 1 - March 1.

• Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants - Support music education for nonprofit and public sector organizations throughout the greater Chicagoland area. Jan. 1 - March 1.

• Youth Engaged in Philanthropy (YEP) Grants - Support programs and projects impacting DeKalb County youth. Dec. 1 - Feb. 1.

Internship Program Spotlight

Meet Tori Smith, an environment policy and law major and NNGO minor at Northern Illinois University. She's interning with the Egyptian Theatre as part of the Internship Program. 

Tori's update >

The Internship Program is a collaboration between the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, the Center for Nonprofit Studies, and Career Services at Northern Illinois University, supported by the Douglas C. and Lynn M. Roberts Family Foundation.

DCNP Membership

2025 DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership (DCNP) membership is open. Join DCNP today and enjoy benefits such as training, professional development, networking, and access to many different programs such as Give DeKalb County.

DCNP membership form >

Foundation Portal Updates

We recently updated both our Fund Advisor Portal and online donation portal to provide a more user-friendly experience.

Fund Advisors, be sure to use the updated link we emailed last week or click the Fund Advisor Portal button on our website to access your Fund details. Haven’t used the portal yet? Now’s a great time to start — view activity, print reports, and make donations online with ease!

Illinois Gives Tax Credit

As of January 1, 2025, the Illinois Gives Tax Credit Act rewards generous donors with a 25% State of Illinois tax credit for contributions to endowed funds at community foundations statewide.

More details coming soon! Questions? Contact Dan Templin at dan@dekalbccf.org or 815-748-5383.