(Council Bluffs, IA, February 28, 2006) The Iowa West Foundation, which is headquartered in Council Bluffs, announced today that it has passed a milestone of $150 million in the distribution of grant funding since its creation in 1994. The grants have gone to hundreds of non-profit organizations and governmental entities in over 100 communities throughout southwest Iowa and eastern Nebraska.
“The Iowa West Foundation has had a positive impact on thousands of persons’ lives in this region”, said Todd Graham, the Foundation’s Executive Director and CEO. “As we move forward in our transparent and user-friendly direction, this trend to improve lives and strengthen communities will continue for many years,” he added.
The foundation receives its funding from investment income and from the Iowa West Racing Association, which is funded by contracted fees from casino operators – Ameristar and Harrah’s. The association is the nonprofit license holder and sponsor for the local casino operations.
The announcement was made at the Harrah’s Conference Center, where foundation board members, grant recipients from 2005, and representatives from Ameristar and Harrah’s unveiled a large milestone decorated cake. The announcement also featured remarks from Omaha Mayor Mike Fahey and Council Bluffs Mayor Tom Hanafan.
The foundation passed the $150 million mark by distributing $16.4 million in 2005.
