Growing Our Community The Old Fashioned Way.
Based on the philanthropy of Vera Jensen, long-time Flathead Lake resident, the Lower Flathead Valley Community Foundation was created by Don Olsson JR., Bill Edelman, and Phil Grainey. It was Vera’s desire to create a permanent gift for the residents of the Lower Flathead Valley. She particularly wanted the needs of children and understanding between the cultures to be the mission of the Foundation. Vera also was a committed protector of the environment.
The original endowment was invested following the appointment of an initial board. Since 1999, the Foundation has grown Vera’s original gift to nearly $3 million dollars, while providing nearly $2 million in small community grants to worthy projects in the Lower Flathead Valley.
Currently the Foundation is awarding nearly $150 thousand dollars per year to worthy community projects and organizations.