Advancing conservation, education, and classical music through collaboration and grantmaking.

overhead view of prairie lands

Photo credit: American Prairie, Gib Myers 

our mission

Our mission is to protect and restore the natural environment, support education of under-resourced communities, and strengthen appreciation of classical music.

two whales swimming between ice formations

Photo credit: Earthjustice, Amelia Brower, NOAA 

our vision

We envision a world in which all living things have the resources to thrive within sustainable ecosystems, and culturally vibrant opportunities are accessible for all.

group of children stretching their arms around a thick tree trunk

Photo credit: NatureBridge

Our Priorities

yellowstone national park with mountains off in the distance
Grizzly bear cubs gathered around mother bear near water
two young children gathered around a water table holding a crab
musicians in a recording space

Photo credits: Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative, National Park Service | People and Carnivores | NatureBridge | From the Top, Sally Bebawny

Since establishing the foundation in 1994, the Volgenau family has invested more than $83 million to protect and restore the environment and support under-resourced communities.