Grant and Funding Programs Offered by La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF)
Overview of Available Grants and Funding
The Max and Marion Caldwell Foundation is a California-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2002 that provides camperships (camp scholarships) to children who otherwise could not afford to attend summer camp. The foundation supports multiple camps including Kennolyn Camps, Gold Arrow Camp, and camps for children with special needs such as Camp Wamp, Camp Krem, and Via West. It offers numerous named camperships with specific eligibility criteria and accepts applications through an online portal. View La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF)'s website for more information.
Content last updated: March 24, 2026
About La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF)
What is the mission of La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF)?
The Max and Marion Caldwell Foundation is dedicated to providing camperships (scholarships) to children who cannot otherwise afford to attend summer camp, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to experience the developmental benefits of camp.
What type of organization is La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF)?
La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF) is a Foundation.
When was La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF) founded?
La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF) was founded in 2002.
What is La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF)'s official website?
La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF)'s official website is https://caldwellfoundation.org/.
What else should I know about La Fondation Caldwell (MMCF)?
Role of the Max and Marion Caldwell Foundation in the Funding Ecosystem
The Foundation serves as a vital link between children from underserved families and transformative summer camp experiences. As a discretionary grant provider, it allocates funds raised through donations and endowed camperships to support camper attendance at partner camps. Unlike traditional grant programs with rigid criteria, the Foundation evaluates each application holistically, considering family financial need, the applicant's interest in camp, and the potential developmental benefits.
General Evaluation Criteria for Applications
Applications are reviewed by the Campership Selection Committee, which considers family financial circumstances, the child's readiness for camp, and the specific camp's alignment with the applicant's interests. Families must contribute a portion of tuition costs, demonstrating shared commitment to the camp experience. The Foundation prioritizes first-time campers who demonstrate genuine interest in the program.
Transparency, Governance, and Accountability
The Foundation operates as a 100% volunteer-run organization with no paid staff or administrative expenses. Board members receive no remuneration. Financial information, including IRS Form 990 filings from 2016-2023, is publicly available. The Foundation is registered as a California nonprofit with tax-exempt status under EIN 16-1641295.
History and Evolution
Established in Fall 2002 by Max and Marion Caldwell, the Foundation began awarding camperships in Summer 2003. The initial endowment included $50,000 from Max and Marion Caldwell's estate, $50,000 from Kennolyn Camps over 10 years, and $50,000 from the Caldwell family. Over two decades, the Foundation has expanded to support dozens of children annually across multiple camps.
Supported Audiences and Overall Impact
The Foundation primarily supports children and youth from families with financial need who wish to attend summer camp programs. It serves campers aged 6-14 at traditional camps and also supports children with special needs through partnerships with specialized camps. Recipients represent diverse backgrounds, with camperships ranging from partial to full tuition coverage.
Institutional Partnerships and Networks
The Foundation works closely with several partner camps: Kennolyn Camps (overnight, day camp, and Huntington Lake locations), Gold Arrow Camp, Camp Wamp (for children with physical disabilities), Camp Krem (serving children with special needs), and Via West (serving children with special needs). These partnerships allow the Foundation to match campers with appropriate programs based on their interests and needs.