Robert Stewart Odell and Helen Pfeiffer Odell Fund

The Robert Stewart Odell and Helen Pfeiffer Odell Fund is a private charitable foundation managed by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. under its Trust Philanthropic Services. Established in 1967 by Robert Stewart Odell and Helen Pfeiffer Odell, the fund was created from the couple’s philanthropic vision and commitment to the community. Robert Odell was president of Allied Properties, which owned the Santa Barbara Biltmore and the Clift Hotel in San Francisco, and he served on the Wells Fargo Bank board of directors in the late 1960s. Following his death in March 1973, the Odells’ generosity has continued to provide financial support to many charitable causes, ensuring lasting community impact. The foundation’s mission is to support a variety of charitable activities, with a primary emphasis on education and programs serving at-risk youth and their families within the San Francisco Bay Area. While there are no absolute program restrictions, funding historically focuses on initiatives that address educational needs and provide human services to vulnerable populations in this geographic region. The fund serves organizations in California, with a strong preference for those operating within the San Francisco Bay Area. Eligible applicants must be classified as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Individual applicants are not eligible for grants from this fund; instead, funding is directed to nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and other qualifying entities engaged in relevant service delivery. Grant applications are accepted year-round but must be submitted by either March 31 or September 30 for review during the foundation’s two annual funding cycles. Submissions for the March deadline are typically reviewed in late April to early May, with award notifications made in May. Submissions for the September deadline are generally reviewed in late October to early November, with notifications sent in November. Applicants receive an automated email confirmation upon submission, and successful applicants may be required to submit progress reports and a final report approximately six months after receiving funds. Average grants range between $10,000 and $25,000, with the foundation awarding around 50 grants per year and total annual giving of approximately $1.5 million. The number of awards and the grant amounts reflect the foundation’s strategy of supporting a diverse portfolio of organizations aligned with its mission. There is no stated requirement for matching funds, and applicants should ensure their proposed use of funds aligns with the fund’s philanthropic priorities. Organizations interested in applying can submit applications online through Wells Fargo Trust Philanthropic Services. The foundation can be contacted for grant program or technical support by phone at 1-888-235-4351 or by email at grantadministration@wellsfargo.com. This direct communication channel ensures that applicants have access to clarification and guidance throughout the application process. The information provided on the foundation’s website serves as a summary; in cases where it differs from the governing instrument, the latter takes precedence.