Who We Are

Our mission is simple, to promote a better life for Alaskans. Since our founding in 1955, we have worked hard to improve and empower the lives of Alaskans through grant programs, initiatives and partnerships.

The grandson of Elmer Rasmuson and great-grandson of Jenny Olson Rasmuson, Board Chair Adam Gibbons tells the story of the family’s remarkable legacy in Alaska, the lessons passed on from generation to generation and his hope for the future.

Our Foundation

We are committed to our founders’ beliefs in hard work and giving back. We support initiatives to improve life in Alaska, provide grants for projects large and small and bring together people with special knowledge and insights to address challenges.

With low salmon returns and fishery closures year after year, Yukon Delta Fisheries Development Association created a new path to local employment and food security: a rural farm and greenhouses. We supported the effort with a $350,000 Tier 2 grant in 2021. (Photo by Samuel Lynn Nothstine – Lynn’s Angle Photography)

Our History

When Swedish immigrants Jenny Olson and Edward Anton Rasmuson arrived in Yakutat at the dawn of the 20th century, no one could have imagined the extraordinary impact their descendants would have on Alaska. The Rasmuson family story is interwoven with the growth and prosperity of Alaska, from territorial days to the present.

Judy, Lile and Ed Rasmuson, seen here as young children, grew up to devote considerable energies to Rasmuson Foundation as board members. Ed served more than 20 years as board chairman, remaining chairman emeritus until his death in early 2022.

Our Board

Our accomplished, compassionate board of directors meets twice a year to discuss strategy, investments and achievements. The board considers grants, initiatives and programs that support Alaska nonprofits, tribes, local governments and individual artists. Members offer their ideas, perspectives and expertise while providing direction to our team.

Rasmuson Foundation’s board and CEO gathered in Ketchikan in June 2023. They are pictured here at Saxman Tribal House. (Photo by Jason Baldwin)

Our Team

A diverse, creative and energetic team of visionaries, specialists and community leaders handles Foundation grantmaking and partnerships. Our team members each bring a vast range of life experiences and strong, impactful voices on housing, homelessness, health care, social supports, arts and culture, economic development, philanthropy, thriving communities and all levels of government — knowledge in virtually every aspect of Alaska life.

Rasmuson Foundation staff gather in downtown Anchorage on Sept. 28, 2023, during a staff retreat. (Photo by Jovell Rennie)

Employment Opportunities

Interested in joining our team? View our job postings here.

Contact Us

Have a question or want to connect? Contact us to reach our team.