The DeKalb County Community Foundation is accepting applications for the Fall 2026 Community Needs and Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund grant programs. Nonprofits and public sector organizations located in or providing services in DeKalb County are invited to apply. Pictured: A Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund grant to Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra provided DeKalb County students with an invitation-only Children’s Concert to nearly 1,400 elementary and middle school students.

• Community Needs Grants support capital and project-based needs of local nonprofit and public sector organizations. Last year, this grant program provided $228,520 to address the needs of 40 organizations throughout DeKalb County. The application deadline is September 1 at 11:59 p.m. Funding is made possible through on-going donor generosity to Community Impact Funds, Field of Interest Funds, and Donor Advised Funds at the Community Foundation.
• Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund Grants support music education for nonprofit and public sector organizations throughout the greater Chicagoland area with preference given to organizations serving DeKalb County residents in recognition of Wurlitzer’s local heritage. Last year, the program provided $241,400 to support music education across 46 organizations. Applications are due by September 1 at 11:59 p.m. Funding is made possible through the Farny R. Wurlitzer Foundation Fund at the Community Foundation.

For questions on grant programs or additional assistance, please contact grants@dekalbccf.org or 815-748-5383.

Sycamore Park District received a Community Needs grant to replace the WPA Shelter roof to improve safety, repair damage, and enhance the shelter’s appearance, helping sustain and preserve the building’s future.