Larson Family Foundation

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OVERVIEW: The Larson Family Foundation supports human services, education, and arts and culture activities in South Dakota.

IP TAKE: The Larson Family Foundation is a great South Dakota funder to know for food, clothing, and shelter needs because it prioritizes “helping South Dakotans achieve a better quality of life.” They do this through largely quiet giving, although their sparse website does reveal some about their giving trends. Additionally, they are a relatively accessible funder, accepting unsolicited LOIs twice yearly.

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.” This is very much a family affair, since several Larson family members are still on the board of the foundation. It funds local efforts for human services, education, and cultural activities.

The Larson Family Foundation mostly focuses its attention within three areas of funding, including basic human needs (such as 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. 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.

Grant Details:

Grants range between about $5,000 and $100,000. Learn more about this funder’s local giving on the grant list section 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.

This foundation accepts unsolicited letters of intent from nonprofits from January 2 - February 15 and July 2 - August 15 each year. Then, it invites select organizations to submit full applications. Completed applications are due September 1 and March 1. The foundation’s board meets twice per year to review grant applications. Direct general questions to the executive director, Maree Larson, at mlarson@larsondoors.com or 606-696-6488.

PEOPLE:

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