Grant Guidelines

Philosophy and Values

The Philosophy of the June & Julian Foss Foundation is based on love of family, generosity of self, respect for diversity, and intolerance of bigotry. We consider society’s most important strength to be that of families, though we define family broadly. We value integrity, self-reliance, self-esteem, and spirituality, and we consider a sense of humor to be an important attribute. We support programs and projects, especially those focusing on children and youth, that promote these values and that encourage an entrepreneurial spirit and a sense of curiosity and wonder.

The Foundation’s priority interests are

Children and Youth
Children and Young Adults with Major Mental Illness

The Foundation focuses on programs that

Strengthen families.
Promote recognition of equality and respect for diversity.
Promote recognition of the innate value of self and others.
Promote respect for one’s own values and those of others.
Enhance capacity for individuals to recognize their own capabilities.
Enhance capacity for self-sufficient living.

Roles of the Foundation

The Foundation serves as a grantmaker, providing funding to existing or expanding projects. The Foundation may also serve as a convener, bringing people together for the purpose of encouraging discourse or generating new ideas specifically related to the Foundation's priority interests.

Discrimination Policy

The June & Julian Foss Foundation believes that the active inclusion of diverse perspectives reflects the highest ideals of American society. The Foundation does not discriminate, nor will it support organizations that discriminate on any basis including age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, national origin, political affiliation, or religious belief.

Geography

Grant applications are accepted from organizations located in Tacoma, Washington; Portland, Oregon; the San Francisco Bay Area; and in Miami, Minneapolis, and Phoenix.

Size of Grants

Grants made by the Foundation usually range from $5,000 to $15,000.

Term of Grants

Grants are made for one year. A grantee may reapply for additional support at the end of the grant period if the Foundation has received a final report on the use of funds and results of the project.

Grant Cycle Dates

Please see our how-to-apply page for information on the dates during which we accept grant applications.

Types of Requests Not Eligible for Funding

Requests for the following are not considered: new construction or endowments; fundraising or recognition events; national organizations or local affiliates of national organizations (except programs developed at the local level that are specific to local needs); individual scholarships; requests from individuals.

Send your questions to:
administrator at FossFoundation.org
LOIs will only be accepted via our online application form.
we strongly prefer electronic methods of contact.