The Earl and Maxine Claussen Trust provides charitable funding with a primary preference for benefiting the Grand Island, Nebraska metropolitan area. However, at the discretion of the trustee, funds may also be distributed to support other charitable purposes. The trust is administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., which evaluates applications and determines funding allocations in accordance with the trust’s mission.

Funding is available for organizations that fall within the following program areas: arts, culture, and humanities; education; environment and animal welfare; health; human services; public and societal benefits; and religion. While there are no strict geographic limitations, priority is given to organizations operating within Hall, Merrick, and Howard counties in Nebraska, which constitute the Grand Island metropolitan area.

Eligible applicants must be recognized as public charities under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) section 501(c)(3). Preference is given to organizations that are physically located within or serve residents of the Grand Island metropolitan area. Applicants from outside this area may still be considered at the trustee’s discretion.

The annual grant application deadline is November 30, with applications reviewed during the December grant meeting. Although applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year, only those submitted by the deadline will be considered for that year's funding cycle. Upon submission, applicants receive an automated email confirmation.

The average grant size ranges from $1,000 to $5,000, with approximately eight grants awarded per year, totaling an average of $27,000 in annual giving. Funded projects may be subject to periodic progress and final reporting requirements as determined by the trustee.

For technical support or inquiries regarding the grant program, applicants can contact Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. at 1-888-235-4351 or via email at grantadministration@wellsfargo.com.