Since 1995, the Trust has supported a limited number of youth recreational projects within eastern Iowa and western Illinois. Efforts receiving Trust support have typically involved the construction or renovation of athletic facilities situated on school or municipal property, such as running tracks, soccer fields and baseball diamonds, among others. However, it should be noted that the Trust does not generally provide funding to support school-based playground initiatives, unless they are represented as part of a Trust-initiated program, involving multiple sites throughout a region of the state.
Youth Recreational Program Guidelines
- Grants to communities for recreational projects and related activities for youth will be given priority in the counties of Muscatine, Cedar, Louisa and Scott in Iowa, as well as Rock Island and Mercer Counties in Illinois.
- Such grants will generally provide no more than 25% of total project costs, or $25,000 maximum.
- Projects that include strong local funding and volunteer support will be given preference.
- At least 50% of total project costs must be raised before the Trust considers an application. Exceptions may be made as circumstances dictate.
Recreational projects outside the above areas will continue to be considered on a case-by-case basis.