For over three decades, the James R. Thorpe Foundation has been dedicated to supporting educational, youth-serving, arts, and social service organizations in the Minneapolis area. Focusing on smaller groups with operating budgets of $3 million or less, the foundation believes its contributions can offer more meaningful support. Since 1974, it has donated nearly $12 million to the Minneapolis community.
The James R. Thorpe Foundation's grant program centers on empowering youth between the ages of 12 to 18, aiming for a successful and healthy transition into adulthood. The grant supports initiatives that enhance self-awareness, self-management, interpersonal skills, academic and employment readiness, participation in the arts and enrichment activities with positive developmental goals, and programs that encourage intergenerational relationships. The Foundation favors providing general operating or program support grants to further these aims.