The George W. Mergens Foundation is dedicated to enriching the lives of youth through supporting programs that promote knowledge, creativity, leadership, and good health. With a focus on children and adolescents, they aim to impact future generations positively by undergirding organizational efforts in providing various services and opportunities.
The grant program guided by the George W. Mergens Foundation aims to support organizations that provide opportunities for youth in areas such as health and welfare, education, job and skills training, creative instruction, leadership roles, exposure to the natural world, and unique experiences broadening perspectives. Funding preferences are for groups identifying significant needs or enrichment opportunities with a clear, effective approach to addressing them. Key categories funded include Education & Training (with programs in STEM, job skills/career training, and literacy), Enrichment Activities (art, theater, music, after-school programs, camps), Recreation (sports, outdoor activities, wilderness training), and Health & Wellness (addressing food insecurity, promoting physical and emotional wellbeing).