The Peter Kiewit Foundation has officially announced its strategic decision to sunset operations by 2030, marking its 50th anniversary. This significant announcement, communicated to friends and partners on November 14, 2024, signals a planned evolution of the foundation’s philanthropic endeavors rather than an abrupt end.
Established in 1980, the Peter Kiewit Foundation has been instrumental in fulfilling the vision of Mr. Kiewit, aiming to foster vibrant communities with opportunities for economic success and a high quality of life. By the time it sunsets, the foundation will have contributed over $1 billion in philanthropic investments across Nebraska and Western Iowa. This milestone underscores its deep and lasting impact on the region it serves.
Over nearly five decades, the Peter Kiewit Foundation has been a catalyst for transformative projects. Key achievements include the revitalization of Omaha’s urban core and riverfront, the establishment of a robust engineering scholarship program specifically designed to advance women in engineering, and critical investments in post-secondary education access and success for students. Furthermore, the foundation has created enriching out-of-school programs for youth, supported business development and affordable housing initiatives in underserved communities, and invested in quality of life amenities throughout Nebraska and Western Iowa. Recognizing the importance of local leadership, it has also empowered community foundations to drive progress within their own areas.
Despite the planned sunset, the Peter Kiewit Foundation emphasizes its unwavering commitment to its mission and partners during the transition period. The decision to sunset is framed as a strategic evolution, designed to amplify the foundation’s impact over the next five years. This approach will enable increased investment in communities and partnerships, focusing on building the capacity of grantees and positioning them for sustained success beyond the foundation’s operational timeline.
The early announcement of this strategic shift provides ample time for grantees, staff, and community partners to prepare and adapt. This transparent communication underscores the Peter Kiewit Foundation’s dedication to a responsible and thoughtful wind-down process.
As the Peter Kiewit Foundation approaches this final chapter, there is a sense of pride in past accomplishments and optimism for the future. The trustees believe Mr. Kiewit would be pleased with the foundation’s legacy of community support and development. However, in line with his ethos, the foundation acknowledges that the work of community building is ongoing and belongs to the communities themselves and the next generation of philanthropic leaders.
The Peter Kiewit Foundation expresses deep gratitude to its partners for their trust and collaboration in building stronger, more vibrant communities throughout the region. As the foundation moves forward, it remains focused on maximizing its impact in these final years, ensuring a lasting positive legacy for the communities it serves, inspired by the enduring vision of Peter Kiewit Sons’ commitment to progress and community development.
For further information and to address potential questions, the Peter Kiewit Foundation has provided a comprehensive FAQ accessible at https://peterkiewitfoundation.org/faq-peter-kiewit-foundation-sunset/.
