Foundation Update – February 2025

​We are thrilled to announce that the Blanche Fischer Foundation’s grant programs will be returning stronger than ever, reflecting our commitment to empowering Oregonians with permanent physical disabilities. Over the past year, we’ve been hard at work refining our giving programs while enhancing the management of our operations and financial resources to ensure long-term sustainability and growth.
We understand that the temporary pause in our giving programs has been challenging for many, and it’s been difficult for us too. Hearing from individuals and organizations in need while being unable to offer immediate support has only strengthened our resolve to improve our processes and impact. We deeply appreciate your patience and understanding during this time of transition.

Our Commitment to Sustainability and Growth
In addition to refining our grant programs, we’ve been focused on improving the management of the Foundation’s assets. This effort ensures that the resources supporting our giving and operations are used as effectively as possible.
Looking ahead, the Blanche Fischer Foundation is working toward an ambitious goal: growing our financial portfolio to $10 million by 2030. This growth will allow us to expand our impact and increase giving statewide, enabling us to reach more Oregonians with permanent physical disabilities and empower them to lead independent and fulfilling lives.

Individual Grant Program Enhancements
We are excited to announce that our Individual Grant Program will resume on April 1, 2025. Key updates to the program include:

• Advocacy and Support Verification:
  Individual applicants are required to work with an advocate, such as a caseworker, rehabilitation counselor, support worker, or family member. Advocates will help ensure the application accurately reflects the applicant’s needs and goals by providing a signed verification statement.
• Demonstration of Engagement:
  Applicants are also required to demonstrate active efforts to improve their independence and quality of life. Examples include participation in rehabilitation, education, employment, volunteer opportunities, or support programs. This requirement highlights our belief in the strength and determination of the people we support.
• Expanded Application Guidance:
  We’ve updated our FAQs and resources to help applicants navigate the process more easily and confidently.
  Our Individual Grant Program offers up to $1,500 in funding (every three years) for essential needs such as assistive devices, accessibility modifications, medical equipment, and more. Applications will be accepted year-round starting April 1, 2025. Updated application forms and guidelines will be available on our website that same day.
• Renewed Organizational Giving Program
  Our Organizational Giving Program supports small nonprofit organizations serving Oregonians with permanent physical disabilities. We are especially focused on groups with annual budgets under $300,000 that are leading advocacy and outreach efforts to advance independence, accessibility, and inclusion.
  If your organization is doing this work, we encourage you to connect with us to learn more. For more information, please reach out to [email protected].

​Our Vision for the Future
These updates reflect the heart of the Blanche Fischer Foundation’s mission: supporting independence, improving quality of life, and fostering empowerment. By strengthening our financial stewardship and setting ambitious goals for growth, we aim to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all Oregonians with permanent physical disabilities.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected]
Thank you for your patience and support during this time of growth and renewal. We are honored to resume our mission of serving Oregonians with permanent physical disabilities and look forward to partnering with you to build a more inclusive and empowered community.