Running Deer Foundation
The organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting various charitable purposes, primarily focusing on religious, educational, and human services initiatives. It funds a range of recipients, including churches, educational institutions, and cultural heritage organizations, reflecting a commitment to community support and development. The foundation's grantmaking activities indicate a strong emphasis on faith-based organizations and educational nonprofits, with additional support for health-related services and cultural institutions. Its funding is primarily concentrated in Massachusetts, where it has made numerous contributions to local charities and educational entities.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A Massachusetts-based church, small-to-mid education or local charity with ties to the Wellesley/greater Boston area or an established relationship with the trustees; modest operating or program support requests are the clearest fit.
Good Fit
- • Organization is located in Massachusetts or has a clear in-state program.
- • Faith-based congregation, seminary, or local education nonprofit.
- • Request is for modest annual program support or clear charitable purpose.
- • Has an existing relationship or local introduction to a trustee or community in Wellesley/Needham.
Geography
Although recipients appear across about ten states, the latest year shows extreme in-state concentration with 92% of dollars going to Massachusetts, indicating a primarily local funding footprint.
Recipient Variety
The foundation funded roughly 34–38 distinct recipients each year (36 in 2024) and supported many independent organizations across the observed years, so the recipient set is broad despite a single very large grant in 2024.
New Applicants
Direct evidence of entry exists: 15 new recipients were funded in 2024 (about 42% of that year's recipients), the filing lists a named contact with phone and mailing address, and the foundation accepts rolling letter submissions, so unfamiliar applicants appear likely to access funding.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
