John Deere Foundation to Assist Local Agencies

Money earmarked to those most in need in the Cedar Valley

WATERLOO—The John Deere Foundation recently approved a one-time grant totaling up to one million dollars to be distributed to United Way organizations in several John Deere unit communities throughout the United States. The United Way organizations will distribute the funds to select human service agencies within their individual communities.

"The purpose for this one-time program is to address the increased demand for human services in these uncertain economic times," says Amy Nimmer, president of the John Deere Foundation. "This additional support will help funded agencies meet some of the needs of the increasing number of people they are serving."

The Foundation worked with local United Way leadership to develop an approach to identify and invite not-for-profit human service agencies to apply for the extra funding. Final decisions were made through the typical United Way allocation process. 

“The Cedar Valley agencies’ selected support human essentials including food, shelter, counseling, and family services” said Dave Rodger, Global Director of Large Tractor Products. “This additional contribution emphasizes the importance of developing strong communities where our people live and work.”

“We are pleased to be able to offer our guidance to the John Deere Foundation in finding worthy agencies for these additional funds,” said Sheila Baird, Director, Cedar Valley United Way. “Grants like this are needed when the economy is causing added stress for people in our community. We appreciate community leaders like John Deere stepping up to help those in need.”

"John Deere and the John Deere Foundation have a long-standing successful relationship with United Way," continued Ms. Nimmer, "so it is logical to seek assistance to make sure that this additional support will lead to the best overall impacts for individuals and communities. John Deere leadership in each unit community have been involved with the Foundation and United Way throughout the process to make the sure the best possible outcomes are achieved."

This one-time grant is in addition to the significant support the John Deere Foundation gives to United Way. In 2009, the foundation made grants exceeding $1.8 million to United Way organizations in unit communities across the US. Most units also conduct employee pledge campaigns as well.

The John Deere Foundation was established in 1948. The primary philanthropic organization within Deere & Company, the foundation works within unit communities and supports not-for-profit organizations working the areas of Solutions for World Hunger, Community Betterment and Education.  

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