The Alexander McCausland Charitable Trust Fund

The Alexander McCausland Charitable Trust provides grants to support organizations focused on the humane treatment, care, and protection of animals in Roanoke, Virginia, and surrounding areas within a 30-mile radius. The trust was established by Mr. Alexander McCausland, whose philanthropic vision emphasized improving the welfare of animals through direct care, protection, and cruelty prevention. Grants are intended for charitable organizations that align with these objectives and are administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as the trustee. The primary purpose of the trust is to fund programs that promote the health, safety, and overall well-being of animals. Grants support efforts related to feeding, sheltering, medical care, and other essential services that ensure humane treatment. However, the trust explicitly prohibits the use of its funds for euthanasia. Eligible projects should focus on direct animal welfare initiatives that align with the trust’s core mission. Grant funding ranges between $5,000 and $50,000, with an average annual distribution of approximately $650,000 across 20 grants. Organizations applying for funding must be registered as 501(c)(3) nonprofits and located within the specified geographic area. Priority is given to programs that directly contribute to the protection and humane treatment of animals, including efforts to prevent cruelty and provide essential resources for their care. Applications for grants are accepted year-round, but the submission deadline for consideration in the annual grant cycle is September 30. Grants are reviewed in October, and funding decisions are typically communicated by November. Organizations will receive an automated confirmation email upon submitting their applications. Funded projects may be required to submit periodic progress reports and a final report detailing the outcomes and impact of the grant. To apply, eligible organizations must complete an online application through the Wells Fargo Philanthropic Services portal. Detailed application questions and specific submission requirements are not provided in the summary, but applicants are encouraged to ensure compliance with eligibility criteria before submitting. Any required agreements or reporting obligations will be communicated upon approval. For further assistance, applicants can contact Wells Fargo’s grant administration team via phone or email. Additional information on Wells Fargo’s broader community giving initiatives and scholarship opportunities is available through their website. Organizations interested in funding should carefully review the eligibility and program limitations to ensure alignment with the trust’s mission.