The Adams-Mastrovich Family Foundation, administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. under its Trust Philanthropic Services Private Foundations, supports charitable, educational, religious, and scientific endeavors. Founded in 1957 to honor the philanthropic legacy of Mary Mastrovich Adams, the foundation emphasizes grantmaking that aligns with her lifelong commitment to causes such as education, religion, health, human services, and the arts. Preference is given to initiatives located in or serving citizens of Los Angeles County, California, and South Dakota.
The foundation's primary funding priorities include supporting social service organizations that aid women, especially those who are victims of domestic violence or have mental illnesses. It also emphasizes programs that offer emergency or transitional housing, promote self-sufficiency through education or job training, help improve parenting skills, and serve the economically disadvantaged. In the arts, preference is granted to music and performing arts programs, especially those involving high school and college students engaged in theatre, vocal, or orchestral music. Religious organizations are also eligible, with strong preference given to Roman Catholic institutions in accordance with the donor’s wishes.
Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The foundation does not fund individuals, political or lobbying campaigns, endowments, travel, conferences, or capital requests unless solicited. Applications are accepted year-round, but to be considered for the annual review in September, submissions must be received by June 30. Funding decisions are typically communicated by November. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $20,000, with approximately 30 to 50 awards distributed annually and total giving averaging between $1,000,000 and $1,600,000.
Applicants must submit their applications online and will receive an automatic confirmation email upon submission. Grantees are required to provide a progress report within six months of receiving funds unless otherwise specified at the time of the award.
For questions or technical support related to the grant application process, applicants may call 1-888-235-4351 or email grantadministration@wellsfargo.com. Scholarship seekers are directed to explore opportunities at csascholars.org, as this foundation does not award grants to individuals.
Mary Mastrovich Adams, the founder, was deeply influenced by her Yugoslavian heritage and Catholic faith. Over her lifetime, she supported a range of charitable activities and institutions, from music education and Catholic parishes to social programs for vulnerable populations. Her legacy lives on through the Adams-Mastrovich Family Foundation’s ongoing commitment to these causes.
