Grinnell College Pledges $55,000 to Support Emergency Department Safety Upgrades at UnityPoint Health – Grinnell
Part of a broader commitment to strengthening health care, emergency services, and community initiatives throughout Grinnell.
Grinnell College has pledged $55,000 to support critical safety upgrades in the Emergency Department at UnityPoint Health. Grinnell Regional Medical Center (GRMC) is enhancing safety measures to ensure the well-being of both patients and team members. Recognizing that the Emergency Department (ED) is a fast-paced environment where situations can change quickly, GRMC has introduced new initiatives designed to reduce risk and create a safer, more supportive space for care
The approved request will help fund a $140,000 project that includes converting one existing Emergency treatment room into a dedicated “safe room” and making important safety improvements to the department’s patient bathroom. The College’s $55,000 pledge will match Grinnell Mutual’s $50,000 commitment toward the effort.
These upgrades are designed to reduce the risk of self-harm, minimize staff injury, and prevent delays in care — particularly as rural communities experience increasing demand for mental health services.
“Grinnell College is proud to be considered a trusted partner alongside our community’s vital organizations and institutions,” says Anne F. Harris, president of Grinnell College. “Quality, reliable healthcare is a cornerstone for a thriving community with strong quality of life and we are glad to be in the position to support these important improvements to the Emergency Department.”
As mental health needs continue to rise across Iowa and rural America, these upgrades represent a proactive step toward ensuring that local emergency services remain responsive, compassionate, and safe.
Monica Chavez-Silva, Vice President for Community Engagement and Strategic Planning at Grinnell College, said, “This contribution is one example of how Grinnell College works alongside community partners to strengthen the systems that help our town thrive. From health care and emergency services to parks, music, and nonprofit capacity-building, we believe strong communities are built through sustained partnerships. We are proud to invest in projects that enhance quality of life and ensure Grinnell remains a safe, vibrant and welcoming community.”
Partnerships With Purpose
Grinnell College’s support for UnityPoint Health builds on a sustained record of investments in health care, public safety, education, and community vitality across Grinnell.
Supporting Local Health Care
$100,000 to UnityPoint Health – Grinnell’s “Delivering Our Future” Campaign
In 2023, The College pledged $100,000 to support labor and delivery services at UnityPoint Health – Grinnell Regional Medical Center. The project added new labor, delivery, recovery, and post-partum rooms and upgraded obstetrics facilities, reinforcing UnityPoint’s commitment to keeping delivery services local. As more hospitals eliminate labor and delivery services, these improvements help ensure that young families can access high-quality care close to home.
Strengthening Emergency Services
$250,000 to Support City-Run Ambulance Services
Grinnell College contributed $250,000 to purchase an ambluance in support the transition to a city-operated ambulance program through the Grinnell Fire and Emergency Services. Now the department provides advanced life support services to Grinnell and the surrounding rural area — a milestone in strengthening essential services.
Investing in cultural and recreational resources
$30,000 for the Central Park All-Inclusive Playground
In partnership with the City of Grinnell and Grinnell Parks & Recreation, the College pledged $30,000 toward expanding Central Park with inclusive playground equipment so children of all abilities can play independently and safely.$75,000 to the Grinnell School of Music
The College committed $75,000 to support the Grinnell School of Music’s mural and outdoor waiting area as part of the renovation of the former Michael’s restaurant building downtown. This project strengthens music education while contributing to downtown revitalization and place-making.
Community Mini-Grants: Grassroots Impact
Over the last three years, Grinnell College has awarded more than $136,000 through its Community Mini-Grant Program. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $7,500 support projects that enhance quality of life, strengthen nonprofit capacity, and advance cultural, recreational, educational, and human service initiatives in Grinnell.
Funding prioritizes collaborative efforts that demonstrate meaningful community impact and help improve the social and economic vitality of Grinnell.