Four $22,000 Grants in Iowa City
In Honor of Caitlin’s Jersey Retirement at University of Iowa
January 29, 2025
The Caitlin Clark Foundation is proud to announce four $22,000 grants awarded to Iowa-based organizations that had a meaningful impact on Caitlin during her time at the University of Iowa.
The idea for these gifts came directly from Caitlin. In the weeks leading up to her jersey retirement, she called home and asked how she could give back in a way that was both meaningful and personal. She wanted to honor the community that had supported her so wholeheartedly, and she knew exactly which organizations to choose.
- University of Iowa Children’s Hospital – Throughout her college career, Caitlin made regular, often private visits to the Children’s Hospital, meeting young patients and their families. While many saw her as a source of encouragement and inspiration, Caitlin often left her time there feeling just as encouraged and inspired. This gift honors those moments and the children whose strength inspired her.
- Boys and Girls Club of the Corridor – Early in her career, Caitlin personally supported the Boys and Girls Club, knowing the vital role it plays in giving kids a safe, encouraging place to learn and grow. This grant continues that commitment, helping the Club expand opportunities and resources for the next generation.
- Special Olympics Iowa – East Central – Inspired by her friend and mentor Debbie Antonelli’s work with Special Olympics, Caitlin wanted to be a part of creating incredible chances for people of all abilities to experience the joy and empowerment that sports can bring. This gift celebrates their determination and the communities that cheer them on.
- Coralville Community Food Pantry – This is where Caitlin first began her own journey of giving back. From those early experiences, she saw how something as simple as providing a meal could change someone’s day (and possibly their future).
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One of my favorite things about Iowa City is the way the community is connected and how everyone supports each other. It’s something I felt deeply during my time here, and it’s something I want to stay connected with for the rest of my life. I’m proud to support each of these organizations and the meaningful impact they make for the people of Iowa.
CAITLIN CLARK
Caitlin has previously partnered with all four of these organizations—through product donations, fundraising participation, event appearances, and, in the case of the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital, regular visits as a student-athlete. These moments were some of her most cherished experiences off the court during her college years.
Mary Coffin, President of the Caitlin Clark Foundation, shared, “We’re thrilled to support these organizations because of their alignment with our mission and Caitlin’s personal connection to their work. These grants represent the heart of our Foundation—uplifting youth through education, nutrition, and sports. Caitlin continues to inspire others by showing how one moment, one act of generosity, can make a lasting difference.”
These grants come just days ahead of the highly anticipated retirement of Caitlin’s #22 jersey, which will be honored during the Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball game against USC on February 2 at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
About the Caitlin Clark Foundation
Caitlin’s passion and joy on the court inspire her Foundation’s work off the court. The Caitlin Clark Foundation’s mission is to uplift and improve the lives of youth and their communities through education, nutrition, and sports—three pillars Caitlin believes were foundational in her own success.
