Together, with the support of our donors, the DeKalb County Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in DeKalb County, IL. Grants from the Foundation come from a variety of grant programs we offer. Each program is unique in how to apply, who it supports, and the impact it creates. So how do these grants impact the community in which we live? Learn more in this grant in action story below! 

The Vera John Endowment Fund makes yearly distributions, in the form of grants, to the National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS). The National Association for Down Syndrome serves the Chicago area by providing support to all persons with Down syndrome in achieving their full potential. They work with individuals to be accepted by their families and communities, to develop their capabilities, and to work towards independence.

Check out this Grant in Action story in the 2019 Annual Report.

Since the Fund’s inception, NADS has received a total $12,477 in grants. The organization uses the dollars to support a variety of programs and services. One of the programs supported is the Welcome Basket program which provides information and goodies to expectant or new parents of babies born with Down syndrome. Each basket includes books about Down syndrome, toys and items for the baby, and information from NADS and other local Down syndrome organizations. The baskets are distributed through local hospitals and must include a referral from a medical practitioner, family member, or friends of the family.

“The Welcome Basket program provides encouragement, information, and endless opportunity. We are very grateful for the ongoing support from the Vera John Endowment Fund to carry out our mission.” ~ Mike Finelli, NADS, Development Manager

Funding for this grant is made possible through donor generosity to the Vera John Endowment Fund, a Designated Fund at the Community Foundation. 

Thank you to Vera John and other donors whose gifts makes grants like these possible!