The Next 100 Years Fund supports KCF’s mission and impact by responding to Kenosha’s evolving needs today and into the next century. By honoring the past and looking ahead, this fund ensures KCF remains responsive, relevant, and positioned to support Kenosha for generations to come.
Welcome to the Kenosha Community Foundation, where we believe in the power of philanthropic giving to create meaningful and lasting change.
At KCF, we are dedicated to establishing and carefully managing permanent endowment funds that express the ambitions and values of our generous donors. Through their gifts, we provide grants to local nonprofits and award scholarships to deserving students.
By choosing to join us as a donor, you become a catalyst for positive transformation across the communities of Kenosha County. Seize the opportunity to shape your legacy. How do you envision positive change? What community issues matter to you? How can we support your philanthropy?
Celebrating 100 Years of Philanthropy: A vision that CONTINUES TO guide KCF TODAY
The Kenosha Community Foundation was founded in 1926 by local business leaders Charles C. Brown, H.E. Barden, W.H. Alford, and A.H. Lance—at a moment when American industry was rapidly expanding and national conversations about wealth, civic responsibility, and community impact were taking shape. Inspired by the philosophy of leaders like Andrew Carnegie, who championed the idea that prosperity carries a responsibility to give back, these founders established KCF to channel resources toward the common good.
From its earliest days, KCF focused on initiatives that could make a meaningful, lasting difference. By supporting education, public spaces, and long-term community programs, KCF sought to empower individuals while strengthening the broader community. Over the decades, its impact has grown through partnerships, careful stewardship, and the vision of countless donors who share the belief that philanthropy is most effective when it creates opportunity and addresses real, enduring needs.
Today, nearly a century later, KCF continues this mission—investing in programs and projects that not only improve lives today, but also lay the groundwork for a thriving, vibrant community for generations to come. By combining tradition, strategic foresight, and a commitment to collaboration, KCF honors its founding principles while looking forward to the next 100 years of impact.
KCF Founders, Kenosha 1926
Coming Soon: 2026 Competitive Grant Cycle
Application opens March 2, 2026
2026 Scholarships Are Now Open
The Kenosha Community Foundation is now accepting applications for 2026 scholarships. A variety of scholarships are available for high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners in Kenosha County. Apply once to be considered for multiple scholarships. Click below to apply.
A Bold Step Toward a Stronger Future
We’re proud to share a major milestone in the Kenosha Community Foundation’s journey: the creation of a new, unrestricted endowment—The Fund for Kenosha.
Launched through the generosity of an anonymous donor, this visionary fund is the cornerstone of our Centennial Campaign, commemorating 100 years of service to Kenosha County. Designed as a permanent, flexible funding source, the Fund for Kenosha empowers KCF to respond to the community’s evolving needs—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
Why It Matters
Unlike restricted funds, this endowment gives us the agility to meet emerging challenges and seize new opportunities as they arise. Through an annual, competitive grant process guided by our trusted volunteer committee and Board, we ensure these funds are used where they’re needed most.
A Legacy of Impact
By contributing to the Fund for Kenosha, you’re becoming part of a collective force for good—joining a legacy of local leaders and changemakers. Contributions are pooled with 13 named component funds, currently distributing over $60,000 annually across the county. Together, we amplify our impact.
Be a Founding Partner
Join us in shaping the future of Kenosha County. Your gift to the Fund for Kenosha will support a stronger, more resilient community for years to come.
Learn how to become a founding partner in this transformative initiative.
KCF and Kenosha Literacy Council On The WGTD Morning Show
A new endowment fund has been created at the Kenosha Community Foundation that could potentially help local non-profits at least partially fill the gap created by federal cuts. A large donation has been secured to kick off the fundraising campaign. Learn why the Kenosha Community Foundation’s Amy Greil gives the Kenosha Literacy Council high marks.
Kenosha Philanthropist establishes an endowment for KSO
The path that led Grace Kolakowski to the doorstep of the Kenosha Community Foundation for help in setting up a fund for the Kenosha Symphony is a fascinating story told here. Watch the entire discussion as part of the WGTD Morning Show with host Gregory Berg.