Who We Are

Washington’s National Park Fund is the official philanthropic partner to Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks.

We believe these parks are for everyone.

Mission

To raise funds to preserve and enhance the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities of Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks so that they remain vibrant, thriving ecosystems and cherished destinations for future generations.

Vision

For Washington’s national parks to ignite a deep sense of wonder and awe in the hearts of all who experience them.

Our Founders

Washington’s National Park Fund was established in 1993 by former Governor and Senator Dan Evans, legendary mountaineer Lou Whittaker, and other prominent community leaders. Together, they knew the three largest national parks in Washington state needed – and, most importantly, deserved – additional attention and financial support.

Lou Whittaker

WNPF Founder and Mountaineer, RMI Expeditions

Daniel J. Evans

WNPF Founder and Former Washington State Governor and Senator

About Us

Washington’s National Park Fund is a non-partisan organization, and it accomplishes its mission through a small team of dedicated staff members and around 20 passionate and engaged board members. Meet the WNPF team.

What We Do

Over the last decade, Washington’s National Park Fund has awarded more than $7.5 million to Mount Rainier, North Cascades, and Olympic National Parks. We are the only philanthropic organization dedicated solely to these three parks.

The projects we fund fall into four core areas: science and research, visitors’ experiences, volunteerism and stewardship, and embracing inclusion. We work closely with the superintendent and staff at each park, who determine the priority projects most in need of philanthropic support.

With the help of thousands of individual and corporate supporters and foundations, we have funded critical search and rescue equipment, countless miles of trail maintenance, wildlife studies, meadow restoration teams, the removal of invasive species, shrinking glacier studies, and many other projects.

Financials & Reports

Washington’s National Park Fund is registered with the Washington Secretary of State’s office (Tax ID #01-0869799). We are committed to financial accountability to our donors and park partners.

 

Read our Impact Report:

Download the Report

Healthy Funding Streams

We are proud of the fact that our funding stream is well-diversified. Income comes from individuals, events, fundraising climbs, license plates, foundations, corporations, and in-park lodge guest donations. We are not reliant on any one area for the majority of our revenue, and if one area drops (i.e., due to COVID-19), other areas can help sustain our efforts. This helps us maintain our financial footing so we can continue to give more each year to the parks.

 

Cover photo: Historic photo of Mount Rainier National Park courtesy of NPS; footer photo (below): North Cascades National Park by Nate Brown 📷

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