The Tom and Helen Tonkin Foundation, administered through Wells Fargo Trust Philanthropic Services Private Foundations, was established to support charitable, educational, and religious initiatives. Its primary mission focuses on benefiting youth in the State of Wyoming, with a particular emphasis on those residing in the City of Casper. The Foundation prioritizes support for organizations that assist youth between the ages of 6 and 21 who face disadvantages due to illness, injury, or poverty.

Grants are awarded to organizations predominantly located within Wyoming, with special consideration for those based in Casper. The Foundation is committed to funding programs in four major categories: Education, Public/Society Benefit, Human Services, and Religion. Organizations applying for support must operate exclusively for charitable purposes and align with the Foundation’s mission to serve Wyoming’s youth, particularly those with specific needs.

Funding amounts typically range between $2,000 and $50,000, with approximately five to fifteen grants distributed annually. The total average annual funding is approximately $150,000. Applications are accepted year-round, but must be submitted by either April 1 or October 1 for consideration at the next grant review meeting, which generally occurs in May and November. Applicants are notified of decisions within three months following the respective deadlines.

Interested applicants must apply online via the Wells Fargo Trust platform. An email confirmation will be sent upon submission. If funded, recipients may be required to submit periodic progress reports and a final report. The Foundation does not offer scholarships to individuals directly; those seeking educational financial aid are directed to csascholars.org.

The Foundation is overseen by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., which serves as the trustee. For additional details about Wells Fargo's broader philanthropic efforts, applicants are encouraged to explore the Wells Fargo Community Giving page. The information summarized here may be superseded by the Foundation’s governing documents in the event of discrepancies.