Roman Foundation
The Roman Foundation is a private (non‑operating) foundation based in Paola, KS administered by First Option Bank as trustee. The bank’s Trusteed Foundations page lists the Roman Foundation, its funding priorities (local schools, libraries, senior citizens and local medical facilities) and application guidelines. ProPublica/IRS filings (Form 990‑PF) confirm the foundation’s EIN and recent financial activity.
Source: Website · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A Kansas-based 501(c)(3) or local government entity working on community centers, libraries, senior services, local medical facilities, or school/education projects and able to submit the trustee application by the March 1 deadline.
Good Fit
- • Organization is located in Kansas (local projects in Miami County/Paola area).
- • Project aligns with listed priorities: schools, libraries, seniors, local medical or community service facilities.
- • Request fits common award types (project support, matching/capacity funds, or capital/repair grants).
- • Able to follow the bank trustee application packet and meet the March 1 submission deadline.
Geography
Observed grants across 2022–2024 are entirely concentrated in Kansas, with giving focused on Paola and the surrounding Miami County area; there is no evidence of out-of-state awards.
Recipient Variety
The latest year funded three distinct recipients and earlier years funded four to five distinct recipients, showing a modestly varied local portfolio of independent nonprofits and government entities rather than a single recurring beneficiary.
New Applicants
A clear public application packet, posted guidelines, a named trust officer, and an annual March 1 deadline are available on the trustee's site, and filings show new recipients in prior years, so unfamiliar local applicants who follow the published process appear plausibly able to enter the portfolio.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
