Marion, Iowa – February 2026 – FG was honored to participate in a milestone community celebration hosted by Monarch Research, led by Clark McLeod and the Monarch Research team. The event marked two significant achievements: 10 years since the organization’s founding and the planting of more than 120,000 trees through its Planting Forward initiative.
Held at the Monarch Research Event Center near Marion (Clearwater Farms), the evening brought together more than 260 leaders from Cedar Rapids–area companies, nonprofits, and local government. The strong attendance reflected a shared commitment across the business community to invest in the region’s long-term natural ecosystem and economic vitality.
The celebration highlighted the extraordinary impact a focused group of committed leaders can make over time. What began as a vision a decade ago has grown into a measurable movement—120,000 trees planted and counting—demonstrating that meaningful progress happens when organizations choose to lead responsibly and work collaboratively.
A central theme of the evening reinforced that sustainable growth is achieved through partnership and shared values. Attendees represented diverse sectors united by a common goal: strengthening the Cedar Rapids and Linn County ecosystem for future generations. Leaders expressed confidence that through continued collaboration and principled leadership, the number of trees—and the community impact—will continue to increase in the years ahead.
FG has partnered with Monarch Research for many years and is proud to be part of this impactful initiative. The evening served as a powerful reminder that when businesses come together and choose to do the right thing, they can create lasting environmental and economic benefit.
Through continued support of infrastructure, connectivity, and environmental stewardship, FG remains committed to advancing partnerships that drive meaningful, long-term community impact.