How Oregon Nonprofits Should Approach the Cressey Family Charitable Trust
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After Portland, the city of Eugene is the largest community in Oregon, with a population of over 175,000 people. Few philanthropists are focused exclusively on the Eugene area, but a significant one to know is the Cressey Family Charitable Trust. This foundation is in tune with the needs of Eugene and Springfield, Oregon, and it has a refreshingly straightforward grant application process.
Here are the top things to know about the Cressey Family Charitable Trust and how to approach this funder for a grant.
Priority giving areas
The Cressey Family Charitable Trust is primarily concerned with education and literacy. It frequently gives to the City of Eugene Public Library and local literacy and reading programs. The funder also donates to general education efforts in Eugene and Springfield. John P. Cressey established the foundation in 2006 and was a lifelong resident of Eugene. His parents owned a bookstore, and he wanted to honor them with his charitable contributions. Cressey enjoyed reading from an early age and wanted other local residents to find the same joy in books that he did.
Foundation giving
This foundation typically awards around 10 annual grants ranging in size from $2,500 to $ 10,000 each. Its total average annual giving is $50,000. Grants are typically for general operating support and have been slightly higher than the average lately, up to $17,500 for one recent grant. Past grantees include the Eugene Education Foundation, Relief Nursery, Smart Reading and Springfield Public Library.
The application process
The trust uses Wells Fargo Philanthropic Services to administer its grantmaking and has a four-member committee that reviews applications. There is an annual application deadline of July 31; however, organizations can submit their applications at any time of the year. The funder conducts the application process online, and applicants receive automated emails confirming their submissions. The funder typically notifies applicants of its grant decisions by November.
Organizations can contact Wells Fargo by email if they have questions about the grant guidelines or application process. A list of answers to frequently asked questions is available on the funder’s website, which also links to a list of other Oregon-focused foundations that operate through Wells Fargo and are open to receiving unsolicited grant applications.
Grantseekers can learn more about this funder in IP’s full profile of the Cressey Family Charitable Trust.
