PAST GRANTS
The Brooks and Suzanne Ragen Family Foundation has donated a number of grants since its inception in 2015. Some highlights are showcased below.
SAN JUAN PRESERVATION TRUST'S LAND ACQUISITION FUND
San Juan Preservation Trust is dedicated to helping people and communities conserve land in the San Juan Islands of Washington State. The Land Acquisitions Fund was established in 1999 and has been a critical component of many major acquisitions. It is used to provide a down payment or earnest money to secure a property while fundraising is conducted to raise the total acquisition funds needed to complete a project. Brooks and Suzanne Ragen have a history of supporting the conservation of this beautiful archipelago, and this grant will continue to preserve the land for future generations.
BURKE MUSEUM TIFFANY WINDOW RESTORATION
University of Washington’s Burke Museum recently embarked on a mission to restore and conserve two grand, stained glass windows from Tiffany Studios. The 16-foot tall “Peacock with Hollyhocks and Morning Glories” and eight-foot tall “View of Puget Sound” windows were commissioned in 1908 by John and Eliza Leary for their home on Capitol Hill. The estate was later purchased by The Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, which graciously donated the windows to the University of Washington and they eventually became a part of the Burke Museum’s permanent collection. Expert Tiffany conservator, Tom Venturella, spent nine months meticulously cleaning and repairing the windows in his New York studio. They are now back home in Seattle and will be prominently displayed in the New Burke Museum, where the community can visit these historic pieces in fall 2019.
CLIENT ASSISTANCE FUND AT THE CENTER FOR VICTIMS OF TORTURE
The Brooks and Suzanne Ragen Foundation endowed a Client Assistance Fund at the Center for Victims of Torture (CVT) in Minnesota. The Center, located in Minnesota, provides direct care for those who have been tortured, trains partners around the world who can prevent and treat torture, and advocates for human rights and an end to torture. The goal of CVT's work is a future in which torture ceases to exist and victims have hope for a new life. Many of the clients served at the Saint Paul, Minnesota Healing Center struggle financially to make ends meet- and it is difficult for people to begin healing until they have established stability and safety. CVT can now offer extra support through the Brooks and Suzanne Ragen Foundation Client Assistance Fund. The Client Assistance Fund purchases items such as groceries, well-fitting winter clothing and educational materials which all make an incredible difference in an individual’s life.
SEATTLE ASIAN ART MUSEUM VOLUNTEER PARK RESTORATION
In late 2019, SAM’s internationally renowned Seattle Asian Art Museum (SAAM), the iconic hub of Seattle’s Volunteer Park and original home of the Seattle Art Museum, will reopen its doors after a much-needed restoration to the historic building, renovations critical for the care, preservation and presentation of the cultural treasures housed inside. The renovation plan restores the original home, including its historic façade and the preservation of classic Art Deco design elements throughout the building. Significant architectural and structural upgrades will protect this beloved landmark and safeguard our world-renowned Asian art collection. A modest addition will also create a new gallery and more space for the community to gather around art and culture, enjoy public programs, and host events. In addition, the modernized museum will feature new, strategic enhancements that allow for strengthened and expanded programs that enliven the space and better reflect the changing demographics of the region.
YALE SQUASH HEAD COACH ENDOWMENT
In December of 2017, the Foundation endowed the Yale Squash Head Coach position as the Brooks G Ragen Director of Yale Squash Position. Brooks Ragen (Yale '55) was a 4-year member of the Varsity squash team, and served as captain of the team for the 1954-1955 season. He captained the 1954-55 Bulldogs to an 11-2 record. Additionally, he was a member of the 6 man team to England, Oxford, and Cambridge in 1953. Read official press release here: http://www.yalebulldogs.com/sports/m-squash/2017-18/releases/20180214fz7va0.
