The Kirkpatrick Family Fund's mission, inspired by John E. and Eleanor B. Kirkpatrick alongside their lineage, is to perpetuate their vision of enhancing the cultural and service community in central Oklahoma. This enduring legacy aims to foster a robust cultural landscape, promote health and well-being, and support the community through strategic philanthropy. The Fund operates with a commitment to nurturing excellence in programming, encouraging broad community participation, and fostering quality learning opportunities for both youth and adults.
The Kirkpatrick Foundation Large Grants focus on several core areas: Arts & Culture, Education, Animal Wellbeing, Environmental Conservation, and Historic Preservation. Each of these areas plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. In Arts & Culture, the foundation supports a wide range of cultural and arts programs, including theater, dance, museums, and festivals, to enrich the community's cultural landscape. In Education, it funds programs across all levels, from pre-K-12 to university-level and out-of-school programming, focusing on improving educational outcomes and providing diverse learning opportunities. The foundation's commitment to Animal Wellbeing reflects in its support for veterinary care, emergency preparedness, and the goal of making Oklahoma the safest and most humane place for animals by 2032. Environmental Conservation efforts are aimed at raising awareness about natural environments, supporting conservation education, and enhancing the health of communities through better environmental quality. Lastly, in Historic Preservation, the foundation partners with organizations to facilitate structural repairs and educational programs that help maintain Oklahoma's historic sites, contributing to the preservation of the state's rich heritage.