The North Face Announces 2016 Explore Fund Grants Open for Applications
$500,000 to be awarded to nonprofit organizations that connect people to the outdoors
ALAMEDA, Calif., March 2, 2016 /3BL Media/ — The North Face today announced the 2016 Explore Fund grant-giving program is now open through April 5, 2016 for applications. This year, $500,000 will be awarded to nonprofit organizations that connect people to the outdoors in meaningful ways. Applicants may now also request a member of The North Face global athlete team to join one of their program activities.
To celebrate the National Park Service Centennial, The North Face is encouraging and giving special consideration to organizations to activate their programs in national parks and has earmarked $250,000 of the total grant funding in support of organizations that encourage people to play, learn and serve in these parks. The designated funds also include consideration for nonprofits that choose to support the Every Kid in a Park initiative, which allows fourth grade students and their families to obtain a pass for free entry to national parks and other federally managed lands and waters nationwide.
“Providing experiences that nurture an enduring appreciation of the outdoors is one way we are continuing The North Face brand’s now 50 year legacy,” said Ann Krcik, senior director of Outdoor Exploration, The North Face. “People are born with a curiosity and desire to explore –
these programs aim to encourage people to find their favorite ways, whether that be hiking, climbing, skiing or camping.”
All applications are evaluated based on the projected impact, clarity of the proposal, and alignment to the spirit of adventure and exploration. The Explore Fund reviews grants by individual merits and as part of a balanced portfolio that includes factors such as geography, type of program, target audiences, and more.
“The national parks provide a premier opportunity for immersive and fun place-based education,” said Will Shafroth, president of the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks. "Using our public lands as living classrooms is a critical component to ensuring students have the tools they need for a bright future. The North Face brand’s support of outdoor exploration programs is a great way to meet that important objective, building a strong foundation for the next 100 years of park engagement.”
To be considered for an Explore Fund grant, applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or in a formal relationship with a qualified fiscal sponsor. All applicants must fully complete the online submission process and provide the required application information. Explore Fund grants are for one year and funding in a giving cycle does not guarantee future support.
As part of its mission to start a global movement of outdoor exploration, The North Face introduced the Explore Fund (explorefund.org) in 2010 and the program has since provided more than $1.7 million in grants to U.S. organizations committed to inspiring the next generation of outdoor explorers and conservationists.
For more information and to submit an application before April 5, please visit explorefund.org.
About The North Face®
The North Face, a division of VF Outdoor, Inc., was founded in 1966 with the goal of preparing outdoor athletes for the rigors of their next adventure. Today we are the world’s leading outdoor brand, creating athlete-tested, expedition-proven products that help people explore and test the limits of human potential. We protect our outdoor playgrounds and minimize our impact on the planet through programs that encourage sustainability. The North Face products are available at premium and specialty retail sporting goods stores globally and we are headquartered in California on a LEED Platinum-certified campus. For more information, please visit www.thenorthface.com.
