The Red Wing Shoe Company Foundation (RWSCF or Foundation) was created in 1955, the same year in which Minnesota passed a law providing the framework for corporate foundations. We support non-profit organizations that align with our mission through direct grants and an employee matching program called Partners In Sharing.
Our Focus is to further education, to promote the arts and sciences, to enhance our natural environment, and to promote opportunities for experiencing and enjoying our natural environment.
Ways we give to non-profits
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The Red Wing YMCA is the RWSCF's longest ongoing partner. In 1955, they received the Foundation's first gift of $6,000 for an addition to their building and more than $2,000,000 to date. We strongly support the positive work the Red Wing YMCA does in the community.
The Environmental Learning Center (ELC) was founded in 1970 with an $8,000 grant from RWSCF. Our strong commitment to youth, education, and the environment is uniquely expressed in the ELC. Since the ELC’s inception, it has received nearly $6,000,000 in direct support from the Foundation.
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The Sheldon Auditorium enriches the culture of the Red Wing community and provides a multitude of educational opportunities for our youth. The Foundation’s financial support of this organization has exceeded $1,500,000.
In addition to these significant partners, the Foundation has supported hundreds or non-profit organizations, events and projects, primarily in the greater Red Wing area. The Foundation has also supported nonprofits in many other communities in which our employees live or work, especially the United Way or organizations that enhance our ability to experience our natural environment.
In 2002, the RWSCF initiated its Partners in Sharing Program, to match employee giving. We have a responsibility to recognize and support our employees in their efforts to improve their communities and the lives of others. Employees, retirees and board members of Red Wing Shoe Co., S.B. Foot Tanning and the St. James Hotel are eligible to participate and submit requests to match donations they have made to nonprofit organizations. In 2011, a new option was added which allows volunteer hours, to qualifying organizations, be matched with monetary gifts from the Foundation
Partners in Sharing
Partners in Sharing Matching
Partners in Sharing Hours
Direct Grants
2023 Total Foundation Giving
RWSCF Board of Directors meets quarterly to reviews grant applications and Partners in Sharing requests.
