Anchorage, Alaska (May 28, 2025) — In 1955, Jenny Rasmuson and her son, Elmer, honored her late husband’s memory with a simple act of generosity, a $3,000 investment to start the Rasmuson Foundation. The Foundation’s first grant — $125 to a church for a motion picture projector — reflected a belief that even small investments could strengthen communities in lasting ways. Seventy years later, Rasmuson Foundation continues that tradition, empowering Alaskans to help each other and lead change in their own communities.

Since its founding, Rasmuson Foundation has awarded more than $550 million in grants across Alaska. These grants have reached every region of the state, from the Arctic Slope to Southeast, in communities large and small.

“Jenny Rasmuson set in motion a tradition of listening first and giving with care,” said Gretchen Guess, president and CEO of Rasmuson Foundation. “We are honored to continue that legacy today, partnering with Alaskans who are building stronger futures for generations to come.”

After her passing, Jenny left most of her estate to the Foundation. Elmer followed in his mother’s footsteps, leaving most of his and his wife's estates to the Foundation, too. Ed, Jenny’s grandson, would become the chairman who brought the Foundation into the modern era, overseeing dramatic growth and the creation of new initiatives during his more than 20-year tenure.

Their support has helped sustain rural health clinics, expand local libraries, celebrate local artists, and more. Whether the funding is for an organization’s urgent capital project, like replacing an old boiler or roof, or for broad-reaching strategic initiatives like solving homelessness, Rasmuson Foundation has been privileged to help advance important work happening across the state.

In its recent annual letter, the Foundation reflected on 70 years of grantmaking, cementing its values, and reporting $22.7 million in investments during 2024.

Throughout 2025, the Foundation will mark its 70th anniversary with visits to neighbors across the state, celebrating the legacy of the Rasmuson family and the countless stories of resilience and creativity that define Alaska.

About Rasmuson Foundation 
Rasmuson Foundation is a private family foundation based in Anchorage, Alaska, with a mission to empower Alaskans to help each other. The foundation was created in 1955 by Jenny Rasmuson, a Swedish missionary, and her son Elmer, to honor her late husband, missionary, and banker E.A. Rasmuson.