The Lewis A. and Donna M. Patterson Charitable Foundation offers annual grant funding to nonprofit organizations that serve communities in western Pennsylvania. The foundation is committed to improving the world through charitable giving, particularly in the fields of arts and culture, higher education, health care research, and services for the poor. The foundation’s giving is guided by a strong focus on supporting meaningful, community-based efforts that enrich the lives of Pennsylvanians in key counties.
Grant funds are awarded to qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations engaged in charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational work that aligns with both federal tax code and Pennsylvania trust law. Although there are no strict limitations on program types, the foundation primarily supports initiatives that contribute to cultural enrichment, promote educational advancement, provide health-related research or care, and uplift economically disadvantaged individuals.
Grants from this foundation typically average $5,000. On average, eight grants are awarded each year. Funding can be applied to a range of eligible activities within the foundation's priority sectors, though the specific use of funds is determined at the time of award. The foundation values initiatives that contribute to public benefit and have a clearly defined charitable purpose within its geographic and thematic focus areas.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but in order to be considered at the annual grant meeting in June, proposals must be submitted no later than April 30. Applicants receive automated confirmation upon submission. Successful grantees are generally required to submit a progress report within six months of receiving funds, unless otherwise specified at the time of award.
Eligible applicants must serve one or more of the following Pennsylvania counties: Greene, Somerset, Bedford, Washington, Allegheny, Westmoreland, Indiana, Centre, Beaver, Butler, Armstrong, and Lawrence. The foundation is managed by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., which oversees the grant process and administration.
