New Fund Benefits Waterman Community

The first-ever Waterman Community Endowment Fund is here. Built by caring community members, this Fund supports local projects and services—today and for generations to come.

Fund story and details >

New Board Leadership

We’re pleased to announce new leadership for our Board of Directors. During the January 2025 annual meeting, the Board elected Jim Stoddard (Sycamore) as president and Michael Constant (Hinckley) as vice president.

Additional leadership details >

Scholarship Opportunity

Spinoso Masters Scholarship

The Spinoso Masters Scholarship is made possible by the continued generosity of John and Vivian Spinoso. The scholarship provides up to $10,000 in support to eligible students for post-undergraduate studies. Apply before April 1, 2025.

Spinoso Masters Scholarship information >

Scholarship Opportunities

2025 Foundation Scholarships

With one application, students can qualify for multiple scholarship opportunities. The Foundation offers over 100 scholarships to students across DeKalb County. Apply before April 1, 2025.

Scholarship information and updates >

Grant Opportunity

Grant Program Aids Expansion and Growth

Build the Future Grants offer support of up to $100,000 for eligible organizations. These grants provide crucial support for the construction of new facilities or the expansion of physical spaces. These projects enable organizations to better serve the residents of DeKalb County, IL. STEP 1: LOI required, deadline April 1. STEP 2: Complete application, deadline May 15.

Grant process and guidelines >

Internship Program Spotlight

Meet Derrek Dykema, a political science major at Northern Illinois University, minoring in NNGO studies, history, and philosophy. Through the Internship Program, he’s gaining valuable experience working with Network of Nations. 

Derrek'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.

Websites for Good Recipient

Congratulations to the DeKalb County Nursing Home Foundation on receiving the 2024 Websites for Good grant (Valued at up to $10,000) from Green Closet Creative! This grant, offered in partnership with the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership (DCNP), will help create a modern, user-friendly website to enhance their impact.

Grant details and process >

Give DeKalb County Nonprofit Registration OPEN

Eligible DCNP members can register for Give DeKalb County 2025. Plus, donors who want to support ALL Give DeKalb County nonprofits can donate to the Bonus Pool.

Give DeKalb County registration >

Make an Impact Now and Forever

Legacy giving is on the rise, highlighting the power of planned generosity. At the Community Foundation, we help donors make a lasting impact—both through future gifts and giving opportunities today.

Four reasons to maximize giving >