Schlessman Family Foundation

OVERVIEW: The Schlessman Family Foundation focuses on strong nonprofits that provide programs and support to vulnerable Denver Metro area residents, and institutions that contribute to the enrichment and sustainability of the Denver community.

IP TAKE: The foundation prioritizes grants for capital projects, specific programs, and joint ventures with other funders.

PROFILE: Established in 1956, the Schlessman Family Foundation was founded in 1956 by Gerald L. and Florence M. Schlessman. Gerald started an investment firm and later Greeley Gas Company. The foundation is now steered by next generation family members. The Schlessman Family Foundation focuses on strong nonprofits that provide programs and support to vulnerable Denver Metro area residents, and institutions that contribute to the enrichment and sustainability of the Denver community.

The Schlessman Family Foundation envisions a Denver Metro area where all residents are educated, healthy and have the opportunity to be self-sufficient, productive members of their community. It primarily focuses on Workforce development; Education programs that work to address the needs of under-served students or improve literacy among adult learners; Elder/Senior programs; Food service and delivery programs; Programs that serve people with disabilities, including those with physical, behavioral, and/or substance use disorders; and Programs that serve the homeless community. Since its inception, the foundation has contributed over $100 million to more than 1000 charities.

Important Grant Details:

Grants range from $1,500 to $250,000. In a recent tax year, the foundation gave away around $2 million. The foundation awards grants to nonprofit organizations in the seven-county Metro Denver area -- Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas and Jefferson counties. Past local grantees include Denver Zoological Foundation, Denver Art Museum, Colorado College, YMCA of the Rockies, Habitat for Humanity, Food Bank of Rockies, and Denver Street School.

The process for new applicants begins with an LOI. The trustees review proposals throughout the year, but final reviews and determinations are made at the annual meeting in March. Distributions are made once a year on March 31st. All applicants will be notified whether or not their request was approved via the email address used to submit their application. It will mail checks for requests that were approved.

PEOPLE:

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CONTACT:

Patricia Middendorf, Treasurer
Schlessman Family Foundation, Inc.
P.O. Box 140598
Edgewater, CO 80214

Phone: 720-573-8709
Email: contact@schlessmanfoundation.org