NewsVGM Group’s Q1 Community Giving Focuses On Education And Literacy

In the first quarter of 2025, VGM Group’s Community Giving efforts focused on projects and organizations that help promote education and literacy throughout the community. 

Donations this quarter totaled: $18,950. Learn more about these organizations below.

Junior Achievement Of Eastern Iowa

Junior Achievement complements the hard work and dedication teachers put into educating their students. Their programs help young people make the connection between the classroom curriculum and life after graduation and also help them see the possibilities of their future. VGM’s donation helps three local classrooms in Waterloo continue on the path of financial literacy and economic success, which directly empowers the next generation to take on their futures.

Junior Achievement is always looking for classroom volunteers. To learn more and get involved, please visit easterniowa.ja.org.

Total donation amount: $6,500

Leader Valley

Leader Valley is a local nonprofit that works directly with Cedar Valley students to teach essential leadership skills for success in school and after graduation. VGM Group has partnered with Leader Valley for several years, and since 2021, our support has provided nearly 250 Cedar Valley students with access to the Leader In Me program for an entire academic year.

To learn more about Leader Valley, their mission, and the programs they offer, visit leadervalley.org.

Total donation amount: $5,700

Partners In Education

Each school year, VGM provides a financial donation to a few area elementary schools. These include Highland Elementary, Cunningham Elementary and Lincoln Elementary. These funds can be utilized by the schools how they see fit, such as teacher appreciation and field days for the school kids.

Total donation amount: $4,500

Waterloo Schools Foundation

For over a decade, the Waterloo Schools Foundation (WSF) has worked to empower students, educators, and the community through targeted investments in education. To date, they have contributed over $2.5 million to initiatives that spark innovation and academic excellence. VGM is proud to sponsor WSF’s annual Sparking Academic Excellence Breakfast, which celebrates the successes of public education within the community.  

To learn more about the Foundation and the work they do, visit wcsfoundation.org.

Total donation amount: $1,000

African American Historical & Cultural Museum 

VGM’s support will help the African American Historical & Cultural Museum relocate and preserve a historic two-room schoolhouse, which will be transformed into an integral part of the museum. This schoolhouse will serve as a physical space to showcase the rich history and stories of African American culture, heritage, and resilience. By supporting this project, VGM is helping expand the Museum’s ability to educate and engage visitors, offering them an immersive experience that brings history to life.

Learn more about the African American Historical & Cultural Museum at aahcmuseum.org. Or plan a visit during their hours of operation on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Total donation amount: $1,000

Allen Foundation

Allen College has a proud tradition of producing exceptional nurses and healthcare professionals, consistently exceeding state and national averages on certification exams. This year, VGM is sponsoring the Foundation’s Donate To Educate Benefit, which plays a vital role in supporting students who will become the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Total donation amount: $250

Questions? Contact members of the VGM Community Giving Committee at [email protected]