Stewarding the inspiring legacy of R.E. Olds
Our family foundation funds opportunities that create meaningful impact throughout Michigan’s greater Lansing community.
OUR VISION
We honor the inventive spirit of R.E. Olds by supporting work that fuels our community’s dreams.
Our philanthropy focuses on education, youth and families, animal welfare, and environmental issues in greater Lansing, Michigan.
Grants
We welcome grant requests from organizations that meet our geographic and areas of interest funding criteria. See if your organization qualifies.
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About us
Founded in Lansing in 1914, the R.E. Olds Foundation is the oldest private foundation in the state of Michigan, led by the family's fourth and fifth generations.
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Our founder
Ransom Eli Olds is considered the founder of the American automobile industry, creating the Oldsmobile Curved Dash, REO automobile and trucks.
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"The R.E. Olds Foundation has been instrumental in our strategic growth in the Lansing and East Lansing area. Without their continued partnership, we would not be able to provide as many students as we have been with the basic needs they require to "achieve in life". There aren't many family foundations like the R.E. Olds Foundation; who not only are thoughtful in where their investments go, but believe in the people who receive the support. We are grateful and cherish the partnership with the R.E. Olds Foundation. "
Marllory DePrekel
President/CEO of Communities in Schools
"As a foundation, RE Olds has done much to improve the lives of young people. Child and Family Charities has been fortunate to be one of the recipients of their generosity. Through the years, the RE Olds Foundation has provided critical funding support to increase our capacity to serve more children and youth in the local community who are experiencing crisis. With a pulse on community needs, their board consistently demonstrates a sincere commitment to invest in youth, the future of our region."
Julie Thomasma, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer of Child and Family Charities
"The R.E. Olds Foundation has helped Mikey 23 Foundation Youth Building program with well over 65 youth in the Lansing area. Their grant has allowed Mikey 23 Foundation to train our youth in the construction trade, from carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. The R.E. Olds Foundation vision has
truly fueled Lansing youth to reach their full potential. Thank you from our community."