The Baker Foundation honors Elbert H. Baker's legacy by supporting Tacoma's youth programs, arts, and education. Established with the proceeds from the sale of the Tacoma News Tribune, the Foundation aims to give back to the Tacoma community, focusing on funding fine arts, education, and health institutions, particularly those benefiting youth. The Foundation grows its assets annually and distributes at least five percent of its total to various causes, guided by a board consisting of Baker family members.
The Baker Foundation primarily supports projects within Tacoma and Pierce County that resonate with its goals of promoting youth programs, arts, and education. They offer financial backing to a range of initiatives, including the Tacoma Symphony Orchestra, children’s art programs, local theater, and significant annual events. They also provide scholarships to deserving high school seniors in Tacoma who demonstrate academic and civic excellence. Their grants, aimed at nurturing the community's well-being, vary in amount, with program grants averaging between $2,500 and $10,000, and capital and endowment grants each amounting to $25,000. The Foundation encourages new applicants and those previously declined to submit proposal letters aligned with its current priorities, embarking on a thorough review process that culminates in the Board of Directors' approval.