With donor support, the DeKalb County Community Foundation invests in projects and programs that enhance quality of life throughout DeKalb County. Our grants come from a variety of programs, each with unique goals, applicants, and impact. Thank you to our generous donors. Community Needs Grants are made possible through gifts to Community Impact Funds.

How does this generosity make a difference where we live? Explore the story below.

Meals With Meaning

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For many older adults in DeKalb County, a daily meal is about more than nutrition. It is a connection to the community and support that helps individuals remain independent. In 2025, the Voluntary Action Center of Northern Illinois expanded its ability to deliver that support with the purchase of a new vehicle for its Meals on Wheels and Nutrition Programs. The organization works to strengthen communities by connecting people with essential services, including food, transportation, and support for older adults and families.

Designed with both heating and refrigeration capabilities, the vehicle ensures meals are delivered safely and efficiently to those who rely on them. This investment was made possible through a combination of community support, including an $18,500 Community Needs Grant from the DeKalb County Community Foundation. Funding for the grant came from donor generosity to Community Impact Funds, which support critical needs throughout DeKalb County.

Together with other local funding partners, this collaborative effort brought the project to life, strengthening an already impactful program and expanding its reach. Each delivery represents more than a meal. It is a moment of connection, a check-in, and a reminder that someone cares. Through Community Impact Funds, generosity is put to work in ways that help neighbors remain independent and connected to the community around them.

“Supporting independence, connection, and dignity for older adults.”