The Step Forward Trust
Preselected recipients only
The Step Forward Trust is a private foundation in Boise, Idaho. In tax year 2025 it gave $368,719 in 11 grants; the typical grant was $7,500 and the largest $250,000. It only gives to organizations it selects itself and does not accept unsolicited applications.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$368,719
- Number of grants11
- Typical grant$7,500
- Largest grant$250,000
- Assets$9.7 million
- New grantees18%
Giving in 2025 was up from $197,945 the year before.
18% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, a mix of repeat and new grantees.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $325,155 | 11 | $8.3 million |
| 2024 | $197,945 | 14 | $9.0 million |
| 2025 | $368,719 | 11 | $9.7 million |
How to apply
The Step Forward Trust says in its IRS filing that it only makes contributions to preselected organizations, so unsolicited applications are unlikely to be considered. Organizations it funds are usually invited.
What The Step Forward Trust funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to Illinois.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 1 | $250,000 |
| Idaho | 10 | $118,719 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| YMCA | Fundsy gala paddle raise match | $250,000 |
| College of Western Idaho | Early childhood education scholarship | $50,000 |
| Learning Lab | Literacy education | $22,000 |
| St Joseph's Catholic School | Event sponsor | $17,219 |
| Idaho Foodbank | Donation for back to school drive | $10,000 |
| Boise Rescue Mission | Donation for highest need | $7,500 |
| Bronco Athletic Association | Gift to support bsu student-athletes | $5,000 |
| Terry Reilly Health Services | Health services | $3,000 |
| Bishop Kelly High School | Student scholarship funds | $2,000 |
| St AL'S Foundation | Event sponsor | $1,500 |
| Feed the Gap Inc | Donation | $500 |
Officers and trustees
- James Chalfant
- Gayle Chalfant
- Martha Chalfant
- John Chalfant
Questions people ask
Does The Step Forward Trust accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Step Forward Trust give?
$368,719 in tax year 2025, across 11 grants, with a typical grant of $7,500.
Who runs The Step Forward Trust?
Its 2025 filing lists James Chalfant (Co-Trustee), Gayle Chalfant (Co-Trustee), Martha Chalfant (Co-Trustee) and John Chalfant (Co-Trustee).
What does The Step Forward Trust fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education and faith communities.