Immanuel Vision Foundation awards $3.2M in FY26 grants

The Immanuel Vision Foundation is making a meaningful difference across the Midwest by investing in people, communities, and the future of aging. In fiscal year 2026, the Foundation awarded more than $3.24 million in grants, supporting organizations that expand access to care, strengthen relationships, and improve overall well-being.

Since 2015, the Immanuel Vision Foundation has provided financial support to nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations whose missions align with our own. More specifically, those that meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of seniors, respond to needs in community health, and support the ministry of the Church.

“Each of these grants represents a partnership rooted in compassion and a shared calling to serve,” said Emily Tonniges, Executive Director of Immanuel Foundations. “From expanding access to mental health care and filling gaps in physical health care to helping older adults remain safely in their homes, these organizations are doing vital, hands-on work every day. We’re honored to come alongside them to help remove barriers and create opportunities for people to live with dignity, purpose, and connection.”

Supporting older adults and aging in place

Helping older adults live with dignity, independence, and connection remains a central focus of the Foundation’s work. This year’s grants support services that remove barriers and empower individuals to thrive at home and in their communities.

• Programs through OneWorld Community Health Centers, Visiting Nurse Association, and HomeWoven help seniors live safely and independently
• Legal and advocacy services from Legal Aid of Nebraska and Iowa Legal Aid provide critical support
• Initiatives like Aging Resources of Central Iowa and Ho-Chunk Community Development Corporation reduce isolation and promote dignity in aging

Expanding health and behavioral health access

Access to high-quality, whole-person care is essential for strong communities. The Foundation continues to invest in organizations that provide emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health services, particularly in underserved areas.

• Grants to Heartland Family Service, CenterPointe, Child Saving Institute, and Project Harmony strengthen mental health services
• All Care Health Center and Antelope Memorial Hospital improve care access in underserved and rural communities
• Holistic wellness programs, including therapeutic and creative services, support whole-person health

Addressing food insecurity and building connections

Food security and social connection go hand in hand. Across the region, partners are meeting immediate needs while creating welcoming spaces where individuals and families feel a sense of belonging.

• Dozens of ELCA congregations are expanding food pantries, meal programs, and outreach efforts
• Partners like NeighborGood and the YMCA of Greater Omaha increase access to nutritious food to seniors
• Community-based programs foster belonging alongside basic needs support

Investing in faith-based leadership and spaces

Rooted in faith, the Foundation also supports initiatives that strengthen leadership, sustainability, and the spaces where communities gather and grow.

• Major initiatives like the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago’s Project Starling and Nebraska Synod ELCA efforts support ministry leadership and sustainability
• Facility improvements at organizations such as Midland University, Mosaic, and Blue Valley Lutheran Homes create accessible, welcoming environments for those they serve

These FY26 grants reflect Immanuel’s ongoing mission to empower communities, expand access to care, and create meaningful impact where it matters most.

View FY26 Community Recipients

View FY26 Synod-Related Recipients