PUTNAM FOUNDATION

Contact information:
P.O. Box 323
Keene, NH 03431-0323
Telephone: (603) 352-2448
Contact: Rosamond P. Delori, Secretary 

Type of foundation: Independent family foundation

Types of grants: Capital campaigns, endowments, general/operating support and program-related investments/loans.

Description: The trust was established in 1952 in New Hampshire by David F. Putnam (deceased). The Putnam Foundation's mandate and purpose is to provide funds on a regional basis in New Hampshire and, in particular, the Monadnock Region for historic preservation, cultural enhancement and ecological maintenance. The Foundation has identified the following areas of interest:

• Arts.
• Children/youth.
• Education.
• Environment.
• Government/public administration.
• Historic preservation/historical societies.

Sample grants:

• $75,000 to New Hampshire Public Radio, Concord, NH for final payment of three year pledge (2008).
• $15,000 to Vermont Public Radio, Colchester, VT for Landlines documentary for Centennial (2007).
• $15,000 to Moving Company Dance Center, Keene, NH for creation of art center for studio classes (2006).
• $10,000 to Monadnock Music, Peterborough, NH for Lend an Ear Program (2008).

Fit for public broadcasting: The Foundation appears to support public media in relation to education and the performing arts. The Foundation has made 10 grants for radio/television/performing arts projects over the past five years, totaling $251,000.

Eligibility: Giving limited to New Hampshire. No grants to individuals or for scholarships.

Deadline: None.

How to apply: Application form not required. The initial approach should be by letter of inquiry. The Foundation Board meets monthly.

Giving range: The average gift for radio/television projects is approximately $25,100. The Foundation has made gifts as high as $500,000.

Assets: $23,580,277 (2008)

Total giving: $1,692,289 (2008)