The Ruth Anderson Wheeler and Henry O. Wheeler Charitable Trust was established in 1982 by Ruth A. Wheeler and Henry O. Wheeler, who were lifelong residents of Tacoma, Washington. The Wheelers, whose families were early Tacoma pioneers, experienced many significant historical periods during the twentieth century, including both World Wars, the economic fluctuations of the 1920s and 1930s, the post-war boom, and significant social changes in the 1970s. Their legacy and values, shaped by resilience through adversity and hope for the future, are reflected in the trust's mission to support charitable causes and encourage productive, generous lives.
Administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., the trust is managed under Wells Fargo Trust Philanthropic Services Private Foundations. The primary purpose of the trust is to support a wide range of charitable organizations, with a particular emphasis on education and organizations based in Washington state. While there are no strict geographic limitations, there is a clear preference for funding projects and organizations located in Washington. Eligible program areas include arts, culture and humanities, education, health, human services, public and society benefit, and religion.
To be eligible for funding, applicants must be organizations that qualify as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Individual applicants seeking educational scholarships are directed elsewhere and are not eligible through this opportunity. There are no specific program limitations, but the trust generally prioritizes educational initiatives and organizations serving Washington.
Applications for funding are accepted year-round, but to be considered for the annual grant cycle, submissions must be completed by July 1. All eligible applications submitted by this date are reviewed at the trust’s annual grant meeting, which typically occurs in August. Applicants receive an email confirmation upon submission, and grant decisions are generally communicated by the end of August. Funded projects may be required to submit periodic progress reports and a final report to the trust as part of their agreement.
