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Our Story
In 1975, the Tenco Workshop was growing rapidly. New facilities had opened in Chariton and Fairfield, Iowa, and more individuals with disabilities were gaining meaningful employment than ever before. For many, it was the first opportunity to earn a paycheck and contribute their skills through quality work.
Despite this success, Tenco faced a familiar challenge: funding.
At the time, the Ottumwa agency operated out of a rented building that had once been a skating rink. While functional, it was far from the type of facility envisioned for the people being served. Resources were limited, and future growth seemed uncertain.
Then something extraordinary happened.
Floyd Parker, a farmer from Monroe County, Iowa, attended a community meeting where he heard about Tenco’s mission. Deeply moved by the impact the organization was having on the lives of people with disabilities, he made a remarkable decision. Upon his passing, Mr. Parker bequeathed his entire estate, including his farm and other assets, to Tenco.
His gift became the foundation of what is now known as the Tenco Foundation.
Today, his legacy continues to improve lives and create opportunities for countless individuals across the communities we serve.
One Gift. Generations of Impact.
For more than 50 years, the Tenco Foundation has helped create opportunities, independence, and a better quality of life for people with disabilities throughout Southeast Iowa. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation has provided funding for safe and accessible housing, modern facilities, specialized equipment, transportation, and life-enriching opportunities for individuals.
Every gift helps ensure that people with disabilities have the support and resources they need to live, work, and thrive in their communities.
The Impact of the TENCO Foundation
Since its creation, the Tenco Foundation has been instrumental in helping build a stronger future for people with disabilities.
Foundation support has helped provide:
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New and improved facilities throughout the region
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Safe, accessible housing options
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Funding to help individuals achieve personal goals and dreams
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Upgraded equipment and technology
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Accessible vehicles that promote community involvement and independence
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Resources that enhance quality of life and expand opportunities
Hundreds of lives have been touched through the generosity of one individual. As others have contributed over the years, that impact has continued to grow. The power of one gift has become the power of many.
Continue The Legacy
The Tenco Foundation exists because one person chose to invest in the future of others. Today, you have the opportunity to do the same.
Whether through a one-time donation, a planned gift, or a legacy contribution, your generosity helps create opportunities that empower people with disabilities to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Ways To Give
There are many ways to support the mission of the Tenco Foundation, including:
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Cash gifts and charitable donations
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Memorial and tribute gifts
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Planned and legacy gifts
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Bequests through wills and estates
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Gifts of appreciated assets
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Annual sponsorship on fundraising events
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Other charitable giving opportunities
Many giving options may also provide tax advantages while allowing you to create a lasting impact for future generations.
Please reach out with any questions:
TENCO Foundation
710 Gateway Drive, Ottumwa, IA 52501
(641) 814-1081
GIVE
GROW
Strengthening family, community and legacy together to achieve charitable goals.
Impacting the value
of our community through the power
of giving.
Leave Your Legacy
Floyd Parker’s gift changed lives and continues to make a difference decades later. Your generosity can do the same.
By supporting the Tenco Foundation, you become part of a legacy of compassion, opportunity, and empowerment for people with disabilities.
Fiscal Year 2026 Impact
Through the generosity of donors and supporters, the Tenco Foundation helped individuals with disabilities build greater independence, stability, and opportunity during Fiscal Year 2026. Foundation funding provided support for:
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Essential household furnishing and appliances, including beds, dressers, sofas, tables, refrigerators, washers, and dryers, helping individuals create safe and comfortable homes.
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Transportation needs, such as bicycles, bus passes, fuel assistance, and vehicle repairs, increasing access to employment, appointments, and community activities.
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Affordable, safe, and accessible housing, ensuring individuals have a strong foundation for independent living.
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Essential clothing and personal items that promote dignity, confidence, and self-sufficiency.
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Meaningful community experiences and inclusive activities that foster connection, belonging, and personal growth.
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Technology and electronics support employment, helping individuals develop skills, maintain jobs, and achieve career goals.
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Building renovations and facility improvements that enhanced client experience, creating welcoming, accessible spaces where individuals can learn, socialize, develop skills, and participate in meaningful daily activities.
Every dollar invested by the Tenco Foundation helps remove barriers, create opportunities, and empower people with disabilities to live fuller, more independent lives. Together, we are making a lasting impact and strengthening communities throughout Southeast Iowa.
Market Street Landing Inclusive Play Space
The Tenco Foundation is proud to have played a role in helping the Market Street Landing Inclusive Play Space a reality for the Ottumwa community. Designed to ensure children, families, and adults of all abilities can play, connect, and create lasting memories together, this remarkable project reflects the values of inclusion, accessibility, and community that the Tenco Foundation has supported for decades.
The successful Grant Opening on August 1, 2026, marked the culmination of a shared vision among community partners, donors, and advocates who believe everyone deserves a place to play and belong. The Tenco Foundation was honored to contribute to this transformative project, helping create a space where barriers are removed, friendships are formed, and opportunities for inclusive recreation are available to all.
We celebrate this success for Market Street Landing and look forward to seeing generations of families enjoy this welcoming destination for years to come. Through projects like this, the Tenco Foundation continues its commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities throughout Southeast Iowa.
2026 TENCO Foundation Golf Classic
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