Ashton Family Foundation

OVERVIEW: The Ashton Family Foundation supports religion, education, health and the arts in Utah.

IP TAKE: This is a low-key grantmaker in Utah, but a big giver in the state that accepts unsolicited grant requests.

PROFILE: Established in 1993, the Ashton Family Foundation is a private family foundation based in Lindon, Utah. Founder Alan C. Ashton is the co-founder of the WordPerfect Corporation and was part of the Novell Corporation’s board of directors. He and his wife Karen Ashton are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and actively involved in their local community. The foundation seeks to “build the kingdom of God; strengthen the family; safeguard and succor children; administer relief to the poor, needy, widowed and fatherless; prevent disease, malnutrition and hunger; eliminate suffering; promote education; benefit the arts; cultivate an appreciation for God’s creations; and assist and work with other foundations in worthy causes.” It supports local religion, education, arts and health efforts.

Grants for K-12 Education, Arts and Culture, and Public Health and Access

The Ashton Family Foundation does not have a website to guide grant seekers. However, recent tax filings, board memberships and local news coverage reveal that the Ashton couple is interested in supporting the arts and culture scene and also faith-based organizations locally. The Ashtons support a storytelling festival at an Orem children’s library, a public garden, museums that engage children, and efforts to improve hospitals and healthcare services in Utah. The Ashtons often provide unrestricted operating support for nonprofits.

Important Grant Details

Grants range between $1,000 and $10,000. Grantmaking focuses on the state of Utah. Past local grantees include Big Ocean Women, Alpine School District, Ability Found, and Community Action Services of Utah.

According to Ashton Family Foundation tax records, the foundation accepts unsolicited grant applications from nonprofits. Grant seekers should submit written requests that include an explanation of needs to the attention of Executive Director Dave Harkness via mail. There are no submission deadlines or restrictions or limitations on awards. Direct general questions to the staff at 801-226-1266.

PEOPLE:

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