VGM Group is dedicated to Making A Difference in the communities our employee owners call home. And there’s nothing quite like helping the younger generations achieve their goals for the future. For Q1 2026, VGM’s Community Giving Committee was proud to support organizations that focus on education and literacy.
For the first quarter, we made contributions totaling $16,800.
Leader Valley
Donation amount: $3,500
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.
Waterloo Community School Foundation Breakfast
Donation amount: $1,000
Every spring, the Waterloo Schools Foundation (WSF) hosts their annual Sparking Academic Excellence Breakfast. This event recognizes the partnership of the Foundation with the Waterloo Schools, honors WSF funding recipients, and celebrates the successes of public education with our community. Funds raised through this sponsorship directly support WSF’s bi-monthly grant cycles and district initiatives, helping remove financial barriers and expand access to unique academic opportunities.
You can learn more about Waterloo School Foundation’s mission at www.wcsfoundation.org.
Junior Achievement of Eastern Iowa
Donation amount: $3,000
Junior Achievement supports and enhances the commitment teachers bring to the classroom. Its programs help students connect what they’re learning in school to real-life opportunities after graduation, while opening their eyes to what’s possible for their future. Through VGM’s donation, three Waterloo classrooms can continue building financial literacy and economic understanding—equipping the next generation with the confidence to shape their own paths forward.
Junior Achievement is always looking for classroom volunteers. To learn more and get involved, please visit easterniowa.ja.org.
FIRST Robotics Competition
Donation amount: $500
FIRST is a worldwide youth robotics program designed to inspire innovation, build confidence, and prepare the younger generation for the future. FIRST accomplishes these goals through various team-based robotics competitions designed for K-12 students. VGM was a sponsor for the Iowa regional competition held in Cedar Falls, Iowa, during the month of March.
You can learn more about FIRST’s mission and values at www.firstinspires.org/about.
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley
Donation amount: $2,500
The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enabling all young people, especially those who need us most to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. VGM sponsored their Road to Great Futures event, which brings together community members and supporters for an evening featuring live entertainment, food, games, raffles, live auctions, and a silent auction. Proceeds from the event directly support the Club’s youth development programs.
To read more about the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Cedar Valley, visit their website at www.cedarvalleyclubs.org.
Partners in Education
Donation amount: $6,000 ($1,500 per school)
Each school year, VGM provides a financial donation to a few area schools. These include Waterloo West High School, 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.
Questions? Contact members of the VGM Community Giving Committee at CommunityGiving@vgm.com
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