Carpenter Foundation Grants

The Carpenter Foundation, established in 1942, focuses on enhancing opportunities in the Rogue Valley through grants primarily for human services, education, arts, and public interest. With a legacy of community partnership, the foundation aims to promote inclusiveness and enrichment. It supports only tax-exempt agencies and has specific eligibility criteria, ensuring that its funding impacts local residents effectively. The foundation is committed to fostering a climate for change while navigating the complexities of grant-making.

NOTE: All new applicants and those wishing to discuss applications should contact the Program Officer.
History and Purpose
The Carpenter Foundation was established by Alfred S.V. Carpenter and Helen Bundy Carpenter in 1942. It was then called the Jackson County Recreation Agency and provided recreational activities for servicemen at Camp White. The Foundation was reorganized in 1958, evolving from a personal vehicle for charitable giving to a general purpose family foundation. In 1972, four public trustees were added to the family members on the board to achieve a broader base of experience for decision making.
The foundation continued its growth and development as a community partner under the leadership of Jane and Dunbar Carpenter who guided the Carpenter Foundation for over 30 years. The purpose of the Carpenter Foundation is to add opportunity, choice, inclusiveness, enrichment, and a climate for change for those living in the Rogue Valley. The Foundation works in partnership with other agencies, organizations and public entities.
We fund in four general areas: Human Services, Education, Arts and Public Interest.

Eligibility

Grant applications will be accepted only from tax exempt agencies (Nonprofit organizations that have 501 (c)(3) status, schools, and governmental entities such as cities and counties.)Only one grant per year to any agency is usually considered.The Foundation makes grants only within Jackson and Josephine Counties with the exception of a few statewide public interest issues directly affecting persons living in these counties.

Ineligibility

No grants to individuals will be made.The Foundation rarely makes multi-year grants, grants for historical applications, hospital construction or equipment, group or individual trips, or activities for religious purposes.