Larson Family Foundation
Contact information:
2333 Eastbrook Drive
Brookings, SD 57006-2899
Telephone: 605-696-6488
Fax: 605-696-6278
Contact: Maree Larson, Secretary
E-mail: mlarson@larsondoors.com
Website: http://larsonfoundation.org/index.html
Type of foundation: Independent foundation
Types of grants: Annual campaign, capital, endowments, matching/challenge support, program.
Description: The Larson Family Foundation was established in 1990 by Dale Larson, CEO and President of Larson Manufacturing Company, the nation's leading manufacturer of storm doors and windows. The purpose was to give back to the community of Brookings and the state of South Dakota which have played a significant role in the growth of Larson Manufacturing. The Larson family also recognized that there are few foundations in South Dakota to meet the needs of the state's citizens. The Foundation makes grants in the areas of:
- Children and youth.
- Federated giving programs.
- Higher education.
- Housing.
- Human services.
- Recreation, parks/playgrounds.
Sample grants:
- $25,000 to Friends of South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Brookings, SD for Family Reading Program (2007).
- $25,000 to Friends of South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Brookings, SD (2008).
- $35,000 to Brookings Arts Council, Brookings, SD for art education (2007).
- $10,000 to Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society, Sioux Falls, SD for jazz education program (2007).
- $20,000 to South Dakota State University, South Dakota Art Museum, Brookings, SD for endowment (2007).
Fit for public broadcasting: The Foundation's only gifts for public media have been to South Dakota Public Broadcasting. However, the Foundation has made multiple gifts for the arts. The Foundation has made six grants for radio/television/arts projects over the past five years, totaling $140,000.
Eligibility: Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and/or be qualified government units. Giving primarily in SD, with emphasis on Brookings. No grants for general support, deficit financing, individuals or loans. The Foundation will not support "media events" unless they are part of a broader program.
Deadline: March 1 and September 1
How to apply: Interested applicants should review the Grant Guidelines. Initial approach is by short letter of intent. If the Foundation is interested, it will request a full proposal.
Giving range: The average gift for radio/television/arts projects is approximately $23,000. The Foundation has made gifts as high as $1 million.
Assets: $7,838,741 (2009)
Total giving: $1,109,381 (2009)
