Endowment payout supports outdoor recreation

Each year, payouts from endowment funds held by the Jones County Community Foundation support organizations’ missions and improve quality of life in local communities. One of those funds is the John W. and Jane Judge Baty Family Fund, and distributions from it are used to support the Baty Disc Golf Course in Monticello. 

In addition to support for constructing the course in 2015, the endowment provides an annual source of funding for enhancements like signage and benches, lawn care, and even planting 50 new trees on the property.

“Without the support of the Batys, Monticello wouldn’t have such an amazing 18-hole disc golf course. Whether they are from Monticello or a surrounding community, there isn’t a day throughout the year that there isn’t someone on the course playing,” says Jacob Oswald, director of Monticello Parks and Recreation. “With the addition of the Willow Trail, the Baty Disc Golf Course has had an immense impact on the quality of life within our community.”

John Baty was born and grew up in Monticello. His mother, Elizabeth served on the Monticello Library Board and his father, Ross, was in business and served on the board of the Great Jones County Fair. The couple now lives in Ames and plays disc golf regularly. “I thought the course was a good idea for Monticello, because all ages can play year-round,” says Baty. “You can play 18 baskets and get some real exercise.”

The Foundation holds funds for many nonprofits as well as individuals and families with charitable goals. In 2022, the Foundation’s family of funds disbursed $98,000 to nonprofits and community projects in Jones County. 

“The Foundation connects donors with the greatest needs in our community,” says Executive Director Doug Edel. “We offer many opportunities to improve quality of life by addressing an array of local issues.” To learn more about how you can establish a fund or make a gift that impacts your community, contact Edel at 319-481-9182 or email jccf@dbqfoundation.org.