OVERVIEW: The Larson Family Foundation supports human services, education, and cultural activities in South Dakota.
FUNDING AREAS: Human services, education, cultural activities
IP TAKE: This is a great South Dakota funder to know for food, clothing, and shelter needs because it makes basic needs a top local priority.
PROFILE: Established in 1990, the Larson Family Foundation is a private foundation based in Brookings, South Dakota. This is the foundation of Dale Larson, the president and CEO of a storm door and window manufacturer called Larson Manufacturing Company. The foundation aims to "give back to the community of Brookings and the state of South Dakota, which have played a significant role in the growth and prospering of Larson Manufacturing.” It funds local efforts for human services, education, and cultural activities.
The Larson Family Foundation mostly focuses its attention within these three areas of funding on basic human needs, including clothing, food, shelter, and education. It awards capital grants, project/program grants, endowment grants, and grants for emergency assistance. On a more restricted basis, it provides funds for operating expenses and also employee matching funds. The foundation considers providing funds for equipment and salary expenses when they are part of a program services expansion.
Grants range between about $5,000 and $100,000. Learn more about this funder’s local giving on the grant list page of the funder’s website. Grantmaking focuses on the city of Brookings and the entire state of South Dakota. Past local grantees include SD Network Against Family Violence, Boys & Girls Club Missouri River, Volunteers of America Dakotas, and Lakota Waldorf School. In 2020, Larson gave $30 million each to Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Feeding America, and Habitat for Humanity to support those most in need.
This foundation accepts unsolicited letters of intent from nonprofits and then invites select organizations to submit full applications. The foundation’s board meets twice per year to review grant applications. Completed applications are due September 1 and March 1. Direct general questions to the executive director, Maree Larson, at mlarson@larsondoors.com or 606-696-6488.
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