Nonprofit

The Lincoln and Jefferson highways were two of the nation's earliest transcontinental roads. These two highways intersected in Colo, Iowa, where a farmer named Charlie Reed had the idea to sell gas to motorists in 1923. He also let travelers pitch tents overnight on his property. On this episode, we learn about the history of the Reed-Niland Corner, with a former Reed Station employee, Scott Berka, who was also instrumental in the site's restoration project of the late 1990s to early 2000s. Then we learn about a new nonprofit, Reed-Niland Corner, Inc. that recently bought the site from the City of Colo to keep the history alive into the future. Later, we head east down the Lincoln Highway to Lisbon, where the McElmeel family has formed their own nonprofit to restore the Meyers Farmstead Historic District and open it to the public as Pleasant Grove Heritage Park.

The future of more than 20 small-town newspapers and shopping guides is in the air as the publisher seeks new owners. Experts say the future of rural journalism likely depends on digital growth and new funding models, including nonprofit support.

After years of financial struggles and community fundraising efforts, Cedar Rapids’ Mirrorbox Theatre will close its doors by the end of the year.

When Mike Jay isn't announcing track and field meets around the state and country, he's sending running shoes to student athletes as part of the Track Guy Foundation. Also, a conversation about the veteran-led humanitarian organization Team Rubicon.

Staff members at Lutheran Services in Iowa were concerned that refugees would become homeless after federal funding cuts. But community donations filled the gap.

Libraries, museums and theatres are just a few of the community institutions facing federal funding losses statewide.