Mr. and Mrs. G. Kirk Swingle Foundation Grant

The Mr. and Mrs. G. Kirk Swingle Foundation, established in 1983 through the will of Eleanor Iva Swingle, supports charitable efforts in Davis and Yolo County, California. Eleanor named the foundation in honor of herself and her husband, George Kirk Swingle, both lifelong residents of the region. Eleanor was a teacher and a socially engaged individual, while George, a graduate of the University of California, pursued a career in agriculture and sheep raising. Their shared legacy lives on through this foundation, which focuses on improving community well-being and supporting higher education in their hometown. The foundation’s mission is to benefit the citizens of Davis and Yolo County by providing grants in the fields of health, human services, and education. Notably, the foundation supports the G. Kirk Swingle Scholarship at the University of California, Davis. This scholarship is designated for students pursuing studies in sheep raising, reflecting George Swingle’s agricultural background. In general, grant funds are aimed at supporting nonprofits that provide health and human services within the designated geographic areas. Eligible organizations must qualify as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The foundation does not support for-profit entities, individuals, or organizations outside of its targeted geographic region. While the grantmaking scope includes both nonprofit service providers and UC Davis, all applicants must align with the foundation’s geographic and programmatic priorities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; however, to be considered at the annual grant review meeting, submissions must be completed by February 28. Applicants receive automated confirmation upon submission. Final decisions are made annually, and while specific award timing is not disclosed, recipients may be required to submit periodic progress and final reports if funded. The typical grant size ranges from $10,000 to $30,000, with an average annual giving total of approximately $100,000. The foundation makes around five grants per year. The foundation is managed by Wells Fargo Bank, which acts as trustee. While the foundation does not publish detailed application instructions, the process is open to all qualifying organizations operating within the designated program and geographic areas. The fund's targeted, regional focus ensures that resources are directed toward improving the lives of residents in Davis and Yolo County, aligning with the philanthropic values of its founders. The foundation does not operate on a multi-cycle or multi-stage submission process and has no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent. Because of its clear geographic and program focus, the fund is especially suited for local nonprofits with a demonstrated impact in health, human services, or educational initiatives involving agriculture.