As a grassroots, not-for-profit organization, the Cheyenne River Youth Project relies on a variety of organizational partners for support as it pursues its ongoing mission in the Cheyenne River community. To show our deep appreciation for all that these valued partners do for us, we’ve created a Partner of the Month initiative — and for November, that partner is the O.P. and W.E. Edwards Foundation.
Started more than 50 years ago in memory of twin brothers, the O.P. and W.E. Edwards Foundation is a small family foundation operating out of Red Lodge, Montana, with offices located at the base of the Beartooth Mountains. The board, which consists of seven family members of the original benefactors, spans four generations scattered throughout the United States and around the world. The foundation has a General Fund, Arts Fund, Sky and Earth Fund, Environmental Fund, Sound Justice Fund, and W.E.E. Fund.
The O.P. and W.E. Edwards Foundation’s General Fund supports organizations like ours, organizations that “help provide a bridge to a life of greater opportunity to low-income, at-risk, underserved youth and children.” In particular, the foundation focuses on assistance that is holistic and long-lasting, and that addresses the significant factors that impede success in education and life.
“This is our third year of working together,” said Kellie Jewett, CRYP’s development director. “For the 2014 fiscal year, the O.P. and W.E. Edwards Foundation awarded us $24,400 for general youth and family programming, including leadership, health and wellness, arts and culture, all of which advance our mission. Without their help, we wouldn’t be able to fund critical staff positions or purchase necessary program supplies.”
A heartfelt thank you to everyone at the O.P. and W.E. Edwards Foundation! We couldn’t continue doing what we do without your friendship and steadfast support.