The Thelma Doelger Trust for Animals is a private philanthropic organization committed to supporting the care and maintenance of animals and the prevention of cruelty to animals within California. Rooted in a longstanding tradition of animal welfare, the Trust prioritizes efforts that positively impact the lives of animals, particularly in Northern California and the San Francisco Bay Area, though it welcomes applications from qualified nonprofits throughout the state.
The Trust invites grant applications from organizations that meet three criteria: they must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, operate within California and under the jurisdiction of the California Attorney General, and maintain a mission dedicated to animal welfare. Importantly, the Trust does not provide funding to individuals. While the Trust is open to applications year-round and there is no formal deadline, organizations new to the Trust are strongly encouraged to submit a Letter of Inquiry before preparing a full application.
Applications may be submitted via email, which is preferred, or by mail. For mailed applications, applicants must include four complete sets of materials. The Trust requires that organizations use the most current version of the application form and adhere strictly to its format and questions, including common items such as organizational history, key staff, spay/neuter policies, and detailed data on animals served. Financial documentation such as IRS 990 forms, budget reports, and income statements must also be included. Applications that omit required items—especially the IRS determination letter—may not be considered.
Funding decisions are made at the discretion of the Trustees, and while specific award amounts are not listed, applicants are asked to outline their top three funding needs and the corresponding amounts requested. The Trust acknowledges all submissions and advises applicants using private mail carriers to notify them via email with tracking details, though no signature is required upon delivery.
No information is provided about how proposals are evaluated, the timeline for award notifications, or the duration of grant periods. Furthermore, while the Trust implies a recurring cycle by noting that applications are considered year-round, no formal award or cycle timing is specified. Applicants are advised to use discretion based on their available grantwriting resources, particularly if located outside of the Trust’s core geographic focus area.
For questions or submissions, applicants may contact the Trust via the provided email. The Trustees overseeing this program are Katherine Doelger, Paul M. Gordon, and Margaret K. Burks.
Ensure IRS determination letter is included, and use the most current form version. Submission by email is preferred.
