Charles and Barbara Wright Foundation

OVERVIEW: The Charles and Barbara Wright Foundation primarily funds grantmaking related to arts and culture. It also earmarks funds for causes like education and human services.

IP TAKE: The foundation lacks transparency, which limits information available on its grantmaking priorities and activities.

PROFILE: Established in 2009, the Charles and Barbara Wright Foundation was founded by businessman Charles Wright and his wife Barbara. Charles serves as chairman of R.D. Merrill Company, a diversified enterprise with a focus on senior housing. The foundation does not maintain a website, which limits information available on its grantmaking priorities and activities. According to tax filings, the Charles and Barbara Wright Foundation primarily funds grantmaking related to arts and culture. It also earmarks funds for causes like education and human services.

Wright’s parents Virginia and the late Bagley Wright, active philanthropists in the Northwest, championed Seattle Art Museum. The Wrights continue to support the institution via their foundation and Charles is on the board. He was also once executive director of Dia Center for the Arts in New York, another grantee. Barbara, meanwhile, appears to have a particular interest in parks and civic space; her board memberships include serving on the board of Seattle Audubon.

Important Grant Details:

Grants range from $250 to $299,500. In a recent fiscal year, the foundation gave away around $2.3 million. Past grantees include Bastyr University; Henry Gallery; Rainier Scholars; Seattle Parks Foundation; United Way of King County; and On the Boards, a performing arts theater.

The foundation keeps a low profile and does not accept unsolicited proposals.

PEOPLE:

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CONTACT:

Bagley and Virginia Wright Foundation
1301 2nd Avenue, 2640
Seattle, WA 98101