A Day of Giving, A Community United

“Great Give Day really is an incredible opportunity to support our nonprofits.”

That’s the message River Bluff Community Foundation Executive Director Alethea Cahoy spreads each year to her neighbors in Clinton and Camanche, as the Foundation gears up for Eastern Iowa’s biggest day of giving in May.

Over the years, that “incredible opportunity” has translated to “incredible success.” Nonprofits serving Clinton and Camanche doubled the amount raised on Great Give Day, increasing total donations from $22,000 in 2024 to $44,000 in 2025.

A standout success was the Felix Adler Children’s Discovery Center, which received 22 gifts to support its endowment and qualified for multiple prizes and matching dollars from Great Give Day sponsors. The Discovery Center provides a safe, positive environment where families explore arts, culture, and science through hands-on exhibits. Their mantra, “learning through play,” inspires curiosity and connection among children across the community.

Success stories like this illustrate reflect a broader trend: Caring community members will jump at an opportunity to support the places and the people they love.

“It’s the perfect kind of fundraising for the organizations that are boots on the ground, helping address issues like homelessness, hunger, education, and the arts,” Alethea says.

At a time when opinions can differ widely on national issues, Great Give Day tells a different story at the local level. Through this event, facilitated by the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, the people of Clinton and Camanche have shown that a shared love for community can unite people in support for the organizations that strengthen their hometowns.

Today, the Foundation is focused on growing awareness of and participation in Great Give Day. Inspired by Great Give Day events in other communities, Alethea envisions a local gathering where giving becomes a shared, celebratory experience. “If you are going to give,” she says, “give on Great Give Day.”