Last month we wished a bittersweet goodbye to our long-time Southwest Iowa Associate, Denise Cardos. After nearly 10 years working at the Foundation, we celebrated Denise’s retirement with an all-staff lunch, commemorative slideshow, and cake. Her last day in the office was March 29.

In her role at OCF, Denise helped manage each of the county-wide grant programs in Southwest Iowa. Throughout her tenure, she was instrumental in assisting hundreds of nonprofits and community projects in preparing grant applications.

Not only did Denise administer all scholarship programs across our affiliate counties in Iowa, she also assisted with public relations efforts at the Foundation, as well as provided donor services support for philanthropists throughout our nine Iowa county foundations.

Denise’s warmth was evident to anyone she interacted with through her role, and her work will continue to have a lasting impact throughout Southwest Iowa. We know Denise is enjoying retirement and having more time to pursue her many other interests!

Thank you, Denise!