The REACH Foundation

The REACH Foundation is a 501.c.3 corporation created by Mark and Wendy Wilson in 2000 to help children physically, financially, and socially in need. Originally established to provide college and vocational scholarships and continuing education grants, the Foundation also supports programs that encourage social and civic responsibility both in and out of the classroom.

The Wilson family has been working hard to increase the number of children touched by their contributions. They have donated a large amount of their own money to benefit multiple causes that help the general welfare and health of children everywhere. The Foundation also strives to raise awareness, provide motivation and generate funding for other organizations and groups that have similar goals.

Examples of the Foundation’s efforts* to date include:

• Provided college scholarships to over 40 high school graduates
• Helped teachers and other educators further their education
• Helped establish 2 local educational foundations with contributions and/or commitment of over $2 million.
• Donated over $350,000 to establish a local library in Kiowa, Oklahoma, and provides ongoing operating funds
• Committed $1.5 million to the Greater Hartford YMCA for the construction of the Wilson-Gray North Hartford YMCA, Youth and Family Center, as well as over $250,000 to other regional YMCA organizations and programs
• Provided over $150,000 in direct funding and a $150,000 endowment to the Make-A-Wish® Foundation of Connecticut
• Provided over $300,000 in direct contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
• Provided over $100,000 to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Connecticut
• Have committed a percentage of the profits of their Crazy Bruce businesses to each, St. Jude and Make-A-Wish®
• Provided over $200,000 in direct financial support to other local and national organizations which support children’s causes
• Inauguration of the Reach Music Festival - an annual musical benefit event aimed at “Saving lives…Changing Lives…Through Music!”™

“If in only one life, make a difference.”®

* Efforts include those of The REACH Foundation and Mark and Wendy Wilson.