Since its inception, the Foundation, which is still led by Lester T. Sunderland's descendants, has focused on supporting construction projects, awarding grants to nonprofits in the Kansas City region and other markets traditionally served by the Ash Grove Cement Company.  Grants are awarded in Western Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Arkansas, Western Iowa, Idaho, Central Texas, Oklahoma, Oregon, Washington, Utah and Montana.

Grants from the Foundation help build the places where families in distress find help and healing, where young minds grow and thrive, and where communities come together for celebration and inspiration.

Our focus on funding bricks and mortar projects - including planning, design, construction, renovation, repairs and restoration - reflects our unique heritage and provides a necessary source of funding for established nonprofits that need new or improved facilities.

By supporting construction and special interest projects that allow nonprofits to fulfill their missions, the Sunderland Foundation fosters a stronger, safer and more vibrant future for the communities we serve.