Undertaking Initiatives for the Common Good
As a family foundation, we are guided first and foremost by the principle of “giving back” which was instilled in us by our parents, Dale and Nancy Olseth. Their steadfast commitment to philanthropy was a cornerstone of our family ethos. We are proud to represent our parents by carrying on the legacy of generosity within local communities. We do this by supporting organizations within four sectors: Arts, Education, Environment, and the Underserved. These are our ‘pillars’ and within each there are many deserving and vital organizations that serve ever-growing needs. To maximize the impact of our philanthropy, we have refined our focus on five specific initiatives that we believe will make meaningful strides toward solving complex societal issues. We thank our partner organizations for their “boots on the ground” efforts, which helps move us forward on these important initiatives.
Cheryl Olseth, Jon Olseth and Karen Solomon,
Directors, Olseth Family Foundation
Current Initiatives
Plant & Animal Species Conservation
Safeguard ecosystems through species diversity
Carbon Reduction & Clean Energy
Support climate change education & carbon reduction solutions
Dignity, Respect & Equality
Foster fairness and inclusion for a healthier society
Food & Housing Security
Meet fundamental needs for individuals and families
Arts, Culture & Education
Enrich lives through experiential learning
Featured Initiative | Species Conservation
Maintaining plant and animal species diversity contributes in many ways to the health and well-being of humans. Species diversity ensures clean air, soil, and water, regulates the climate, safeguards a robust food supply, provides sources for myriads of medications, supplies fiber and building materials, and influences recreational and spiritual values.
Over the past four decades, human activities such as development, agricultural expansion, deforestation, and poaching have become the primary causes of flora and fauna extinction and biodiversity loss. Other factors such as the effects of climate change, global consumerism, and population growth also threaten many species’ long-term sustainability.
Through our many partnerships, the Olseth Family Foundation aspires to slow or reverse the loss of native species, with the goal of restoring stability and balance in North American ecosystems.
Making a Difference | In Recognition of International Women’s Day
Engendering Dignity, Respect and Equality
The Olseth Family Foundation is proud to continue support for The Advocates for Human Rights, who work tirelessly to change systems and conditions that cause human rights abuses. The Advocates fight injustice and improve laws and lives throughout the world while representing individual victims of human rights violations.
Specifically, the foundation funds the Women’s Human Rights Program which focuses on ending violence and discrimination against women and girls by improving laws and policies, both in the United States and globally.