The Schlessman Family Foundation was founded in 1956 by Gerald L. and Florence M. Schlessman. It was established to provide charitable support in granting opportunities for children and adults hindered by economic status, physical or mental challenges, or requiring additional educational opportunities with the intent to enable them to become self-sufficient, productive members of their community. Since its inception, the Foundation has contributed over $100 million to more than 1000 charities.
Upon the death of their parents, Lee E. Schlessman and Susan Schlessman Duncan assumed the leadership of the Foundation and continued until their deaths in 2019.
The current trustees are:
OFFICERS:
Lauren Watel, President
Gary L. Schlessman, Vice President
Eric Bennett, Treasurer
Jennifer Schlessman Bonicelli, Secretary
OTHER TRUSTEES:
Margaret Schlessman Emmerich
Michael D. Fredericks
Aaron Garnett
Benjamin Garnett
Colin Garnett
Sandra Garnett
Dolores J. Schlessman
VISION: The Schlessman Family Foundation envisions a Denver Metro area where all residents are educated, healthy and have the opportunity to be self-sufficient, productive members of their community.
MISSION: The Foundation’s mission is to support strong nonprofits that provide programs and support to vulnerable Denver Metro area residents, and institutions that contribute to the enrichment and sustainability of the Denver community.
If your organization has received a grant in the past 3 years, please follow the link below to apply. Please note, completed applications will only be considered if submitted before the due date of November 1st.
At this time, the Trustees have decided to pause the open LOI and new applicant process in order to focus support on their existing relationships. All organizations applying need to have received a grant from the Foundation in the most recent 3 years, or be specifically invited by a Trustee to apply.