About Us | Trane Family Foundation

Our Mission

The Trane Family Foundation provides financial support to non-profit organizations in the La Crosse, Wisconsin region whose work advances education, alleviates hunger, strengthens early childhood development, addresses addiction and substance abuse, protects our natural environment, and empowers minority communities.

We believe that a thriving community is one where every person — regardless of background or circumstance — has access to opportunity, care, and a voice. Our grantmaking reflects that belief.

The Foundation concentrates its giving in the greater La Crosse area, including La Crosse County and surrounding Coulee Region communities in western Wisconsin.

Our Values

Community first. We invest locally, knowing that strong neighborhoods build strong regions.
Equity as a priority. We actively seek out organizations serving communities that have been overlooked.
Trust in our grantees. Non-profit leaders understand their communities. We fund their expertise.
Accessibility. Our application process is designed to be clear, fair, and not burdensome.
Long-term thinking. We fund the work that builds durable, systemic change alongside immediate relief.
Stewardship. We take our responsibility to donors and the community seriously.

Funding Priority Areas

We fund non-profits working in six interconnected areas that together shape the health and vitality of our region.

🏫

Education

Programs that expand access to quality education across all ages — K-12 enrichment, early literacy, after-school programs, adult learning, tutoring, mentorship, and college access initiatives.

🍴

Hunger Relief

Food pantries, meal programs, mobile food services, community gardens, nutrition education, and organizations addressing the systemic drivers of food insecurity in our region.

👶

Early Childcare

Quality early childhood education, subsidized childcare, parenting support, home visiting programs, and child development services — especially for families with limited access.

💌

Addiction & Recovery

Prevention education, treatment access, peer recovery coaching, harm reduction, and long-term support services for individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

🌿

Environmental Conservation

Conservation of green spaces and natural areas, waterway restoration and protection, sustainability education, outdoor access programs, and habitat restoration across western Wisconsin.

✊

Minority Empowerment

Culturally responsive services, economic development, civic engagement, leadership development, advocacy, and direct support for minority and underrepresented communities in the Coulee Region.

What We Do Not Fund

To help you assess fit before applying.

Capital campaigns, building construction, or major equipment purchases
Endowment funds
Political campaigns, lobbying, or partisan activities
Individual scholarships or personal financial assistance
Organizations primarily serving geographic areas outside the La Crosse region
Government agencies or units of government
For-profit organizations

Note on faith-based organizations: We welcome proposals from faith-based non-profits whose programs serve the general public without requiring religious participation.