Whitaker Foundation - Arts & Parks Grants

Whitaker Foundation - Arts & Parks Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Mr and Mrs Lyndon C Whitaker Charitable Foundation
Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Summary

The Whitaker Foundation, established in 1975, supports arts and parks initiatives in St. Louis, Missouri. By funding arts organizations and park projects, it enriches community life through creativity and shared spaces. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and provide free public programming. The foundation does not fund playgrounds, sports leagues, or individual grants, ensuring support is directed towards impactful community projects that promote relaxation, beauty, and celebration.

Overview

Whitaker Foundation Grant The Whitaker Foundation was established in 1975 by Mrs. Mae Meissner Whitaker in memory of her husband Lyndon. The Whitaker Foundation is a private, independent foundation that supports charitable and public purpose projects in the limited geographic area of St. Louis, Missouri. Arts Grants -Enriching Lives Through the Arts By supporting excellence in the Arts, the Whitaker Foundation promotes art forms and institutions that challenge, entertain and contribute to the overall quality of life in the community. Parks Grants - Encouraging the Preservation & Use of Parks By funding Parks, the Whitaker Foundation provides St. Louisans with an oasis where they can experience relaxation, tranquility, and share the company of others. With Park support, the Foundation helps to create moments of joy, beauty, and neighborhood celebrations that bind us together as a community.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Arts organizations must be located on the Missouri side of the St. Louis Metropolitan area.Arts applicants must meet the following organization criteria:Be an agency with the Arts as its primary mission.Have 501(c)(3) status.Be a professional company with paid artistic staff.Provide a live audience experience. Parks applicants must meet the following organization criteria:Have 501(c)(3) status.Provide programming in a designated City of St. Louis park.Offer programming that is free and open to the public.

Ineligibility

Please note the Foundation does not fund playgrounds, sports leagues, community gardens, or environmental programs.Please note that Whitaker Foundation funds may not be used for galas, fundraisers, or regranting to other organizations.The Foundation does not make grants to individuals. Currently, the Foundation is focused on program grants and does not support general operating or capital campaigns.