George and Arlene Rusch Memorial Foundation
Preselected recipients only
George and Arlene Rusch Memorial Foundation is a private foundation in River Forest, Illinois. In tax year 2025 it gave $88,600 in 18 grants; the typical grant was $2,000 and the largest $22,100. 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$88,600
- Number of grants18
- Typical grant$2,000
- Largest grant$22,100
- Assets$1.8 million
- New grantees17%
Giving in 2025 was up from $76,250 the year before.
17% 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 | $84,100 | 23 | $1.4 million |
| 2024 | $76,250 | 21 | $1.5 million |
| 2025 | $88,600 | 18 | $1.8 million |
How to apply
George and Arlene Rusch Memorial Foundation 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 George and Arlene Rusch Memorial Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 2 states, the most to Illinois.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 16 | $86,100 |
| New York | 2 | $2,500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| WTTW WFMT | Supporting public radio and the mind the gap initiative. | $22,100 |
| Grace Lutheran School | To provide educational scholarships, textbooks, classroom supplies. | $13,500 |
| Harmony Community Cares | Food Pantry & Education Program for the Underprivileged. | $13,000 |
| Grace Lutheran Church | To provide ministry & staff support. | $12,500 |
| Northshore Concert Band | To support music education outreach, recorded works, commissions & leadership fund. | $5,000 |
| Operation Walk Chicago | Bringing mobility to underserved populations in the world. | $5,000 |
| Lutheran Child and Family Services (LCFS) | Supporting social services to children & families in need. | $3,000 |
| Northwestern University Kellog School of Mgmt | Supporting education programs, research and scholarships. | $3,000 |
| Doctors Without Borders | Support healthcare under urgent circumstances in Ukraine. | $2,000 |
| Chicagoland Lutheran Education Foundation | Educational Scholarships, Textbooks, Classroom Supplies, Furniture & Equipment | $2,000 |
| Harmony Community Church | To provide church & youth ministry support. | $2,000 |
| Infant Welfare Society | To support medical, dental & social services for children. | $2,000 |
| First Presbyterian Church of River Forest | To support the church & youth ministry. | $1,000 |
| American Civil Liberties Union | To defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed by the US Constitution and laws, including freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, due process, and equality before the law. | $500 |
| Center on Halstead | Supporting LGBTQ+ health, wellness and cultural enrichment. | $500 |
| Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Foundation | Supporting children healthcare and research. | $500 |
| Misericordia Home | To provide residential care for the disabled. | $500 |
| Navy Pier | To support arts and culture. | $500 |
Officers and trustees
- David Zyer
- Connie Zyer
- Constance Felten
- Elizabeth Zyer
Questions people ask
Does George and Arlene Rusch Memorial Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does George and Arlene Rusch Memorial Foundation give?
$88,600 in tax year 2025, across 18 grants, with a typical grant of $2,000.
Who runs George and Arlene Rusch Memorial Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists David Zyer (Dir/Pres/Treasurer), Connie Zyer (Director / Vice President), Constance Felten (Secretary) and Elizabeth Zyer (Director).
What does George and Arlene Rusch Memorial Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education, faith communities and arts and culture.