Education
Harry Merlo placed a special emphasis on the importance and value of education. He believed it to be a means of uplifting individuals and their families and, ultimately, strengthening communities. The Merlo Foundation seeks opportunities to invest in educational opportunities both in traditional classroom settings, including K-12, and in private faith-based schools. Priority is given to organizations whose primary mission is to educate youth and assure access to educational enrichment (arts, athletics, etc.)
Examples of Past Grant Awards in Education
De La Salle North High Catholic School
Capital Grant
$300,000
Multiple Year Award:
$100,000 per year for three years
“The realization of a dream! That is what the Harry A. Merlo Foundation gift means to the De La Salle community. Creating vibrant and safe space for current and future students of Knight Nation is what our new home represents. We are forever thankful to the Harry A. Merlo Foundation for believing in our mission and the wonderful students we serve.”
Oregon Historical Society
“The Harry A. Merlo Foundation has invested generously in our museum exhibits and our three FORWARD! Campaign initiatives: the creation of our permanent Experience Oregon exhibit, Digital Vault, and research library renovation. The Merlo Foundation’s mission of improving the quality of life for present and future generations parallels OHS’s vision to foster a better tomorrow through an Oregon story that is meaningful to all Oregonians. As an Oregon icon, Harry A. Merlo’s leadership and investment in our state shaped Oregon’s history, and his foundation continues his legacy of empowering and improving the region.”
Portland Tennis & Education
Program Grant
$75,000
Multiple Year Award:
$25,000 per year for three years
“The Merlo Foundation’s contributions to our work has enabled us to work toward a Portland where all youth have equal access to a fair learning and playing field. The thoughtful approach to empowering grantees truly stands out and thanks to their support, PT&E is celebrating our 25th anniversary of serving over 16,000 young people through academics, athletics, life skills, and family engagement. We are eternally grateful for the ongoing support!”
Reading Results
Program Grant
$75,000
Multiple Year Award:
$25,000 per year for three years
“Support from the Harry A. Merlo Foundation is helping our tutors to work intensively with students on their reading skills. The pandemic has disproportionately affected students who were already behind. When I visit our partner schools, I see six, seven, and eight-year-olds working so hard to be strong readers and needing just the type of care we provide. ”