The foundation, started in 1981 by the late businessman and philanthropist Chester E. Dekko, invests in projects and programs that help build knowledge, skills,and character in children and young people from birth through age 18 so they can be self-sufficient and grow up to be economically free.

Its grant-making is concentrated within 13 counties in four states — Indiana, Iowa, Alabama, and Minnesota — where Dekko had business or personal interests.

Among area organizations receiving grants were:

• The Center for Whitley County Youth, Columbia City: $300,000 over three years to support the organization’s programs for young people, its connections with local families and its increased financial sustainability.
• Lost Sparrows Inc., Winona Lake: $20,000 to support the organization’s annual conference in which educators, youth-serving professionals and parents learn about adverse childhood experiences and how they can aid children’s healthy development.
• Smith-Green Community Schools, Churubusco: $75,000 to support updating the junior-senior high school’s auditorium with new lighting so that students can follow their interests, express their creativity and build performance skills.
• Joe’s Kids Inc., Warsaw: $75,000 to support acquiring property for a new campus location that will help the organization meet the growing need for therapy services for children and young people with developmental delays.