Our Commitment
Conservation
Protecting Wildlife
Educating Children
Environmental Education
Classical Music
The Volgenau Foundation (TVF) was established in 1994 as an operating foundation fostering conservation of natural resources and the education of children. As of 2016 it is primarily a grantmaking foundation.
*Given their expertise in areas in which the Foundation funds, family members Lisa Volgenau, Lauren Volgenau-Knapp, and Jennifer Volgenau Wiley serve in both board and programmatic roles for the foundation. They have a deep, longstanding interest in developing and maintaining relationships with foundation partners and serve as primary points-of-contact for a portfolio of grantees. Lisa, Lauren, and Jennifer also provide sector leadership and represent TVF at numerous conferences and coalitions.
The Volgenau Foundation supports only pre-selected organizations.
At this time, we do not accept uninvited letters of inquiry or proposals.
Learn more about our priorities and strategies here
The mission of The Volgenau Foundation is to protect and restore the natural environment, support education of under-resourced communities, and strengthen appreciation of classical music.
We envision a world in which all living things have the resources to thrive within sustainable ecosystems, and culturally vibrant opportunities are accessible for all.
We are guided by two fundamental values: honesty and service.
To protect land, marine, and freshwater resources that support natural ecosystems, biodiversity, and people, and to increase resilience to climate change.
Goal Statement: The foundation is deeply committed to the preservation of natural resources, both on land and in marine and freshwater ecosystems, with a dual focus on nurturing thriving natural ecosystems and improving the well-being of communities that depend on them. Our overarching goal is to ensure that protected areas support the balance of nature and enhance the quality of life for people.
Clicking the logos below will take you to that organization's website.
To increase resilience to our changing climate, address and mitigate the impact of humans on wildlife habitat and movement, and promote healthy coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Goal Statement: The Foundation seeks to enhance resilience of wildlife in the face of climate change and mitigate the impacts of human activities on wildlife movement, habitat, and survival. Our main objective is to ensure that the planet's remarkable biodiversity not only endures but thrives, while fostering coexistence between human communities and the natural world.
Clicking the logos below will take you to that organization's website.
To provide under-resourced communities with access to conservation and STEM education.
Goal Statement: The Foundation is committed to increasing access to conservation and STEM education for under-resourced communities, equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to become conscientious stewards of the environment. This includes understanding the full ramifications of climate change, and becoming productive members of society. Our goal is to inspire a new generation that is not only academically proficient but also socially and environmentally conscious.
Clicking the logos below will take you to that organization's website.
To increase youth exposure to, appreciation of, and interest in classical music.
Goal Statement: We provide funding to a select number of organizations to honor our family’s long-standing interest in fostering a deeper connection to classical music, with a specific focus on engaging and inspiring youth. We aspire to kindle an enduring appreciation for classical music, ensuring it remains a vibrant art form and cultural experience that enriches the human soul for generations to come.
Clicking the logos below will take you to that organization's website.
