We believe that natural spaces are vital to the health and well-being of individuals, local communities, and the common good – and that people who feel connected to the outdoors will actively protect our shared natural resources.

Our Aspiration

• Ensure that all people have access to natural spaces and the mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing they provide.
• Increasing opportunities for youth to participate in outdoor activities.
• Encourage lifelong stewards of nature as well as active lifestyles.

 General Guidance for Prospective Grantees

• We focus on funding organizations that are aligned with our mission and are working to address deep, meaningful needs that they are uniquely positioned to meet.
• We only fund 501(c)(3) organizations, in good standing.
• Although we sometimes fund select national organizations, we generally fund organizations working in Minnesota, Dallas, Northern San Francisco Bay Area / Marin County, and the Vail Valley.
• We are committed to funding programs that support the advancement of women and girls.
• We are NOT accepting requests for: capital improvements, endowments, or scientific research.

Specific Guidance for Environment Focus Area

• We focus on funding organizations that are uniquely positioned to realize significant components of our focus-area aspiration (above).
• We are committed to funding programs that serve youth from under-served and under-resourced communities, particularly girls and young women.

Letter of Inquiry

While the Foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals, Letters of Inquiry (LOIs) are welcome. We most actively review LOIs in January/February and July/August for board meetings in June and December. If you meet the criteria listed above, please click here to start the LOI quiz.

To learn more about our grantees, please view our annual report.