Cedar Rapids-based TrueNorth Companies L.C. totaled $1,555,295 in charitable giving in 2025, marking another year the firm surpassed $1 million in philanthropy, the company announced at its December all-colleague meeting.
The funds were raised through several sources, including community funds from TrueNorth and First MainStreet, quarterly colleague-led fundraisers, a colleague match program and the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation. The contributions supported more than 300 nonprofit organizations nationwide, according to a release.
During the meeting, the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation presented its fourth annual Founders Fund Award, which recognizes a colleague for outstanding commitment to a nonprofit through volunteerism and advocacy. The 2025 honoree is Elsabeth Hepworth, a content specialist, who was recognized for her work supporting the Catherine McAuley Center in Cedar Rapids.
The Catherine McAuley Center provides educational and supportive services aimed at promoting stability, skill-building and community connection for individuals and families seeking to improve their lives.
“The Founders Fund honors colleagues who balance professional excellence with meaningful community engagement,” Matt Evans, president of the TrueNorth Legacy Foundation board, said in a statement. “The award reflects the philanthropic spirit of our six founding members and offers colleagues a platform to highlight causes where they play a significant role.”
As part of the award, the Founders Fund donates $10,000 to the recipient’s chosen nonprofit.
“Elsabeth’s dedication to the Catherine McAuley Center exemplifies the impact one person can have in expanding access to education and support,” said Anne Parmley, TrueNorth’s community impact director.
The Founders Fund concludes the Legacy Foundation’s 2025 grant cycle. Earlier in the year, the foundation awarded grants to organizations aligned with its focus areas of children and education, vibrant communities, and emergency response and preparedness. Grant recipients are selected based on demonstrated need and vision, alignment with the foundation’s priorities, and support from a TrueNorth colleague.
