Frequently Asked Questions

Brainerd Foundation Sunset

Q: Why have you decided to sunset the foundation?
A: Paul Brainerd's message sets forth rationale to sunset the foundation's grant making activities. The impetus is one of wanting to maximize our annual payout and the impact of our grant dollars. Paul Brainerd is motivated to spend-out by the urgency of the conservation issues facing our region. He has committed to passing his passion to the next generation of philanthropists over the course of the next decade. It is an exciting time and we are humbled by the opportunity to make even a bigger impact in the decade ahead.
Q: What is the timing of the spend-out?
A: The foundation will spend-out its assets over the next 10-12 years, concluding its work of 25 years.
Q: How will the Foundation's spend-out impact my organization?
It is too early to say how our spend-out will impact specific organizations. We anticipate our annual grants budget to increase by approximately 40 percent above our current $2.5 million annual payout. The increased dollars will focus on deepening the breadth and depth of our current mission and strategy. Over the next 6-9 months, the board will be working with advisors and staff to define exactly what this will look like to best maximize our long-term impact. We ask for your patience while we develop our plans.
Q: Since the spend-out will increase the annual payout, how might it change the Foundation's program focus or approach?
We will adhere to our current strategic framework, even with our increased annual payout. Our vision, however, remains: to build the will of communities and policy leaders to protect our region's air, land and water. And as we keep to our strategic plan, our goals will continue to be:
  • to achieve effective and sustained regional state policy and voter education efforts
  • to protect key landscapes that are secured with local community buy-in and strong advocacy
  • to leave the strongest possible organizations in support of conservation.
Q: If we have questions or input, how do we contact you?
A: As always, you are welcome to call or email us with input or questions. We will keep you apprised on refinements in our program over the coming 6-9 months and beyond.