The Foundation, led by Lester T. Sunderland's descendants, is dedicated to supporting construction projects across the Kansas City region and other areas traditionally served by the Ash Grove Cement Company. Its mission encompasses awarding grants primarily for construction and special interest projects, focusing on enhancing higher education, youth services, health facilities, community buildings, museums, civic projects, and energy-efficient affordable housing through planning, design, construction, renovation, repairs, and restoration efforts.
The Foundation's grant program aims to support a variety of causes through construction-related projects, emphasizing the enhancement of community infrastructure and services. It has four main funding areas: