The Bruce and Cecilia Petersen Foundation Trust is managed by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., and is committed to supporting organizations that aid impoverished populations within the state of Utah. The foundation was established with a focus on charitable giving that directly benefits individuals in need, emphasizing its mission to alleviate poverty through strategic philanthropic investments.
The foundation’s primary funding objectives center around three key program areas: education, health, and human services. All supported initiatives must demonstrate a clear intent to relieve poverty, aligning with the foundation’s core mission. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and all activities must be directed toward benefiting low-income populations residing within Utah.
Applications are accepted throughout the year; however, only those submitted by June 1 are reviewed at the annual grant meeting held in July. Submissions made by this date will receive consideration for funding decisions typically communicated by the end of the calendar year. Upon submission, applicants receive an automated confirmation email. Organizations that receive funding may be required to submit periodic progress updates as well as a final report to demonstrate the impact and outcomes of their funded programs.
There are specific exclusions regarding eligibility. The foundation will not fund any projects or requests from The Salvation Army, a California corporation, nor from any charity that is owned or sponsored by a church or organized religion. This limitation underscores the foundation’s aim to maintain neutrality and focus on secular relief efforts.
The grant program is geographically limited to Utah, and only organizations based in this state are considered for funding. The foundation does not support organizations operating outside of Utah, even if they serve impoverished populations. This localized focus allows the foundation to maintain a concentrated and effective impact on communities within the state.
For further inquiries, organizations should direct communications to Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., which serves as the trustee and administrator of the grant. This institutional oversight ensures that the foundation maintains fiduciary and philanthropic integrity while executing its mission.
