What is Grand Teton National Park Foundation?
A private, nonprofit organization established in 1997 to raise funds for projects that preserve and protect Grand Teton National Park's cultural, historical and natural resources.

What are Grand Teton National Park Foundation’s priorities and how are they determined?
The Foundation supports projects that utilize private philanthropy to protect or enhance Grand Teton’s resources.
Current projects include: wildlife and climate research, a youth program that enhances park trails, and the construction of a visitor center auditorium (opens spring 2009).

Why does Grand Teton National Park need private philanthropy in addition to tax dollars?
Private philanthropy assists national parks in meeting needs not otherwise funded by federal dollars. This private support provides enhancement projects in the park and helps the park carry out its mission.

Why don’t entrance fees cover the costs of operating the park?
Infrastructure and operations are provided for through congressional appropriations. As one of over 390 National Park Service units, Grand Teton competes for these limited funds along with all of the nation’s parks.

Does the Foundation receive federal funding for operations? How are private funds raised?
The Foundation does not receive federal funding. The organization receives gifts from individuals, foundations, and corporations and also applies for private-sector grants.

Why build a new visitor center?
The Moose Visitor Center was constructed in 1961 and could no longer adequately serve the number of annual visitors. The facility was overcrowded, noisy, lacked appropriate ventilation, and did not meet current seismic safety standards.

What was the Foundation’s role in facilitating a new visitor center?
When the park was unable to secure sufficient federal funding to cover the cost of building a new facility, the Foundation launched a capital fundraising campaign to generate the additional funds. The $21.6 million visitor center was built with an $8 million congressional appropriation and $13.6 million in private-sector gifts.

Is the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center a sustainable building?
The building was designed to silver LEEDS standards; however, the building is not officially certified due to the additional $250,000 certification cost. Sustainable features include: Low-E glass; recycled countertops, partitions, and carpet; radiant concrete slabs warmed by low-temperature water; ENERGY STAR-rated appliances; and waterless urinals and low-flow toilets.

Why does the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center need an auditorium?
There is currently no venue in the visitor center for audio-visual presentations, such as the park’s Discovery documentary, or for lectures and interpretive programs. Tour and convention groups, schools, and community organizations also need space for special programming.

Can I help Grand Teton National Park?
Become a Grand Teton National Park Foundation member and also educate yourself and others about ways to protect the park’s resources.

Where can I find governing documents?
Governing documents, audited financials and original organizing documents are available upon request.