Reed and Carolee Walker Fund Grant

The Reed and Carolee Walker Fund, established in 2003, is a permanent endowment managed by The Oregon Community Foundation. It aims to support low-income families and children in Jackson County, providing essential services such as food, shelter, and mental health assistance. With an annual grant distribution of approximately $2 million, the fund prioritizes organizations that enhance self-sufficiency and address emergency needs, ensuring vulnerable populations receive the support they require.

A permanent endowment with earnings to be used exclusively to support programs for the needy, especially children, in Jackson County.
This fund was established in 2003 by a generous bequest from Ashland residents Reed and Carolee Walker. It was their that the Walker Fund be used to help low-income people, particularly children. Reed Walker’s will said in part: “Preference shall be given to organizations that provide food, shelter, emergency needs services and other services to the poor and needy in Jackson County and that provide an opportunity for those living in poverty be become more self-sufficient … In addition, preference shall be given to organizations and elementary schools that provide health, clothing, nutrition services, emergency needs, enhancement programs and field trips for children living in poverty.”
The Fund distributes approximately $2 million in grants annually.
Funding Priorities
This fund was established in 2003 by a generous bequest from Ashland residents Reed and Carolee Walker.
After assessing community needs and the donors’ intent, OCF established the following funding priorities for the Walker Fund:

• To support people living on low incomes in Jackson County through:Mental health services for children
• Food, shelter, and other emergency assistance for children and families
• Substance use treatment for pregnant people and/or children and families
• Programming for childrenFood, shelter, and other emergency assistance for individuals
• Dental health services for children
• Otherwise address the focus of the Walker Fund