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Jan 15, 2026

Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation honored for regional impact

All net proceeds from Shorty’s, one of the resort’s par-3 courses, directly fund the Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation supporting conservation, community, and economy on the Southern Oregon Coast. Shorty’s is just one of the resort’s revenue generators for the Foundation.

The Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Philanthropic Foundation Award by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Oregon and Southwest Washington Chapter.

The award celebrates the Foundation’s longstanding commitment to supporting environmental stewardship, community well-being, and nonprofit capacity across rural and coastal Oregon.

Founded in 2006, the Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation has granted millions of dollars to organizations focused on conservation, education, health and human services, and youth development. Its giving emphasizes long-term impact and place-based strategies that reflect the needs and values of southern Oregon communities.

“Our mission is to give back to the region that has given so much to Bandon Dunes,” said Marie Simonds, executive director of the Foundation. “We are honored to be recognized by AFP, and even more honored to support the incredible nonprofits and people who are making a difference every day across our communities.”

The Foundation supports both small, grassroots nonprofits and larger-scale conservation and recreation efforts. Notable investments include trail development, watershed protection, and public recreation projects such as the Wild Rivers Coast Scenic Bikeway and portions of the Oregon Coast Trail.

“Philanthropy, to us, is not just about writing checks,” Simonds said. “It’s about investing in the long-term health and vitality of communities through partnerships, listening, and building trust.”

Nonprofit leaders throughout the region describe the Foundation as a thoughtful partner that understands the complexities of working in rural Oregon. Beyond grantmaking, the Foundation offers support through convening, relationship-building, and capacity strengthening.