Community Connections

We aim to increase the opportunities for all community members to get involved with local, sustainable farming.  Local Foods Connection does this by partnering with local groups, such as MICA and the Grinnell Chamber of Commerce to increase awareness through events and educational opportunities.  

Our community partners help us identify members of our community who might be in need of our services.  We then follow up with their referral to make sure Local Foods Connection is a good fit.  If it is, we line up the referral with food from a local farmer as well as identify and help reduce other barriers, such as cooking equipment and cooking with local food.   

Social Entrepreneurs of Grinnell

The Social Entrepreneurs of Grinnell (SEG) is a 501(c)(3) microfinance nonprofit located in Grinnell, Iowa, that seeks to empower individuals through microloans internationally and locally. In Spring of 2015, SEG reorganized to become a community-based volunteer organization and continues to provide small zero-interest loans to those who have an emergency need.

Mid-iowa community action

Mid-Iowa Community Action, Inc. (MICA) is a private, nonprofit organization serving children and families in central Iowa. MICA provides early childhood, health, family development, and housing services as well as community enrichment programs. MICA, in collaboration with other community partners, leads efforts to strengthen families and communities. 

Grinnell ministerial association

Grinnell Ministerial Association is a small organization in the membership organizations industry located in Grinnell, IA. It opened its doors in 2008 as a community resource for those needing support. The organization calls to love all, and widen the circle of compassion.

Station clubhouse

The Station Clubhouse is dedicated to the recovery of men and women with mental illness by providing opportunities for our members to live, work and learn while contributing their talents through a community of mutual support.

Grinnell Regional Hospital (Dr. Jennifer Paisley)

Dr. Jennifer Paisley is a new member of the GRMC’s internal medicine department. Paisley’s interest in obesity medicine and management is complementary to services already offered at GRMC. Poweshiek County’s community health needs assessment ranked obesity as one of the highest priorities in need of change. Paisley is enthusiastic about developing a community-wide program to address the obesity issue.

FOod recovery network

Food Recovery Network is a national organization with a Grinnell College chapter. The campus group is dedicated to recovering surpluses of food from the dining hall and around campus, and distributing the food to community partners as well as directly to those in need.