Mission & History

We seek the intersection between opportunity and impact. Through our unique connections, knowledge and grant-making capacity, we can catalyze results directly and indirectly. This allows us to play a transformational role in elevating the social sector in the Wood River Valley, which in turn ensures that the whole community thrives.

How we do it:

• Assessing the present and pointing to the future. Our review processes help nonprofits improve their operations and help donors chart the most satisfying path for their philanthropy.

• Targeting the root cause of problems

• Leveraging expertise

• Inspiring others to be generous by example

• Creating the platform and environment for smart, effective giving

• Growing the skills and capabilities of non-profit leadership

• Optimizing the role of philanthropy in the well-being of the community

We hold ourselves to the highest standard as an example to others.

How we do it:

• Setting clear expectations, internally and externally

• Doing what we say we are going to do with quality

• Modeling best practices

• Taking a continuous improvement approach to all aspects of our work and relationships

• Raising the bar for effective local philanthropy

We believe the magic of our community stems from all the people who live and visit here as well as the natural environment that surrounds us. We think strategically about how and where philanthropic investments can do the most good. We are open minded and inclusive in our approach to ensuring quality of life and opportunity for all.

How we do it:

• Listening and considering other’s ideas, input, feedback and circumstances

• Collaborating; believing in the power of many and collective impact

• Seeking diversity of experiences and thinking styles to make better decisions

Our ability to serve both the donor and nonprofit sides of the philanthropic equation requires trust. We view earning, building and maintaining trust as sacred responsibilities.

How we do it:

• Operating with integrity beyond reproach in actions, data, processes and execution

• Tolerating zero conflict of interest or perceived conflict

• Being transparent in successes and failures

• Prioritizing our fiscal responsibilities

• Maintaining humility

• Providing honest, respectful and timely communications, internally and externally, in all situations

We are innovators who are willing to experiment in pursuit of desired results. We can act quickly and decisively to try new and novel solutions.

How we do it:

• Being action oriented, with the ability to jump in ASAP when a critical need presents itself

• Taking risks, wisely

• Valuing simplicity and practicality in the design of our services, processes and operations

• Acting, evaluating, learning, and improving...ALWAYS