For nearly four decades, the Bisbee Foundation has been a quiet but powerful force shaping the heart of our community. Founded in 1985, the organization began with a simple but visionary idea: to build a permanent endowment whose yearly earnings would support Bisbee’s cultural, historical, educational, and human needs for generations to come. Sixteen dedicated “First Founders” pledged $5,000 each, creating the Foundation’s initial $80,000 fund, money that would never be spent, only grown and used to nourish Bisbee’s future. Their commitment laid the groundwork for what has become a cornerstone of community support.

What resonates with me most is the mission at the center of the Bisbee Foundation: to enhance the historical, cultural, and human qualities that make Bisbee unique. As someone who cares deeply about this town, it feels meaningful to see an organization so aligned with the things that make Bisbee special: its art, its history, its old buildings full of stories, its creative spirit, and its people.

Today, the Foundation focuses on several key areas: arts and culture, historic preservation, literacy and education, environmental improvement, and the long-term care of Evergreen Cemetery. With values rooted in stewardship, integrity, and collaboration, it continues to evolve while staying grounded in community needs.

Every year, the Foundation offers grants that help local nonprofits, educational programs, and community projects come to life. Applications open January 1 and close April 1, giving organizations the chance to apply for general operating grants, project grants, historic preservation support, environmental funding, and even solar-energy grants through the Bisbee Solar Fund. Teachers in the Bisbee and Naco school districts can also apply for the Love of Learning Mini Grant—up to $250 for classroom projects, due each November 1st.

The Foundation also makes a tremendous impact through scholarships. Whether a student is heading off to college, returning to school, or pursuing vocational training, the Foundation provides financial support to help them take the next step. Scholarship applications run annually from January 1st through March 1st.

This past year marked a major milestone: the Foundation’s 40th anniversary of giving back. For 2025, it awarded more than $67,000 in grants and scholarships to organizations like Central School Project, the Bisbee Community Chorus, the Bisbee Radio Project, Ectopia-Bisbee Bikeways, and others that enrich daily life here. Local students also received vital scholarship support, yet another reminder of how investment in our youth strengthens our community’s future.

What makes the Bisbee Foundation truly special is its long-term vision. Every donation, every endowment, every small grant is an investment in Bisbee’s continued vibrancy. It ensures that our traditions, creativity, history, and community spirit remain supported—not just now, but for decades ahead.

For anyone wanting to learn more, get involved, or apply for a grant or scholarship, the Foundation can be reached at bisbeefoundation1@gmail.com or by mail at: