Russell Foundation awards $2.3M for environmental education and climate-focused food systems

The Russell Family Foundation awarded $2.3 million in grants and investments to organizations across Washington state, funding environmental education and climate-focused food systems. The funding supports nonprofits statewide, including a $60,000 grant to Aspen Institute for two-year convenings and a $500,000 recoverable grant to Institute for Washington’s Future to back farmworker-led infrastructure. The initiative blends multi-year core grants with flexible “Meet the Moment” awards and impact investments. Backed by a $75 million endowment, the strategy aims to expand environmental learning, strengthen food systems, and advance climate resilience and equity.