The Foundation’s goal is to serve, educate, and provide mental health services in Minnesota.

Foundation gifts are intended to meet a specific need or program. While some grants may be multiyear, gifts are not primarily for ongoing support of programs. Preference will be given to use of gifts as a catalyst, provide seed money, or provide money for worthwhile programs that otherwise might not occur for lack of funding.

Gifts may be used in part for operating expenses pursuant to the grant up to 20% of the gift, but funds are not intended to fund ongoing administrative costs of the organization.

The Board intends to fund medium-sized projects related to service delivery. The goal is to provide funding for gaps in current service or those provided in novel ways. While informed by science, gifts are not intended to support large research projects. While research is a guiding principle, the goal of gifts is not to complete research. All projects are expected to demonstrate effectiveness through outcome measures at least once per year. Programs can design outcome measures appropriate for their project in concert with the Board.

All recipients must be a 501(c)(3) organization that presents their IRS letter of acceptance at the start of the grant process.

In addition to stewardship of grants, the Board is responsible for oversight of investment management.