On June 12, 2008 a literal wall of water swept through Cedar Rapids, Iowa that eclipsed the previous flood stage by over 11 feet. Our entire downtown was inundated by flood water including 800 businesses employing over 9,000 people. 3,400 homes were lost, almost all city and county facilities, 39 non-profit organizations including 6 museums and 3 performing arts theaters, our arena, our federal courthouse, and one of our hospitals were affected by the flood. Over 1,300 blocks in 9.2 square miles were hit.
Second only to finding solutions to the serious housing crisis that we are in is helping small business recover. We are asking you to consider helping get people back to work by making a significant donation to the Job & Small Business Recovery Fund that has been established by the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. This fund will assist small businesses immediately with grants and 0% interest forgivable loans to enable them to pay employees, bills, clean up costs or for leverage against new business loans. Attached is additional information about the fund.
In order for our community and its economy to begin the long climb back to vitality, we need your help. Please consider a tax deductible donation to the Job & Small Business Recovery Fund, c/o of The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, 200 1st St. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 or donate online at www.gcrcf.org.
Thank you in advance for your careful consideration of this request.
Best regards,

Lee R. Clancey
President/CEO