Thorpe Foundation Grants: Support for Seniors

The James R. Thorpe Foundation, established in 1974, focuses on enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable seniors aged 55 and older in the Minneapolis area. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations that provide essential services to promote dignity, independence, and social connections among seniors. Key funding areas include home and community-based services, programs to reduce social isolation, and initiatives that foster intergenerational relationships. With a commitment to impactful community support, the foundation plays a vital role in empowering seniors.

Thorpe Foundation has been a committed grantmaking partner dedicated to making the greater Minneapolis area better for all its citizens.
In the last decade, support for the growing senior community has emerged as a funding priority.
Opportunities for Seniors
The Thorpe Foundation funds organizations that are committed to supporting vulnerable seniors, age 55+, to age with dignity, independence, and connection.
The Foundation supports efforts that:

• Provide home and community-based services that allow seniors to remain in the residence of their choice as long as they are able,
• Reduce social isolation by providing opportunities for seniors to form or deepen social connections, develop new skills, and foster creativity,
• Help seniors engage meaningfully in their communities, and
• Use reciprocal multigenerational programs that foster empathy and build relationship across-generations

Eligibility

The Thorpe Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that are located in and/or primarily serving residents of Minneapolis and its first- and second-ring suburbs.The Thorpe Foundation limits its support to organizations with operating budgets of $3 million or less (even if the program for which the organization is seeking funding has a budget of less than $3 million).Organizations must have at least one paid employee to receive funding consideration. In any year, organizations may receive funding for one area (youth or seniors), but not both.

Ineligibility

The Foundation does not fund organizations whose service area is outside of its geographic focus.Organizations that operate through a fiscal sponsor are not eligible for funding consideration.The Foundation does not support capital purchases or campaigns, or endowments.