Who We Are
Our History
Built on the legacy of Theresa Bear and the Tarbell family’s commitment to their community
While the Bear’s Den Charitable Foundation officially embarked on its journey in 2022, the seeds of its establishment can be traced back to the early 1950s. It was during this time that our family matriarch, Theresa Bear laid the groundwork for serving the needs in her local community.
The Tarbell family, driven by a strong community spirit, seeks to continue this positive impact. With the success of their business expanding throughout Native America, they recognized an opportunity to formalize a foundation that would support Indigenous Peoples throughout Turtle Island and its surrounding communities. The Bear’s Den Charitable Foundation was established with the goal of empowering and enriching the lives of Indigenous Peoples.
About Our Organization
Bear’s Den Charitable Foundation was created to empower and enrich the lives of Indigenous Peoples through grants and mentorship programs that address both immediate needs and long-term change-making. The Foundation’s work is supported by funds donated by the Tarbell Management Group’s family of companies and does not solicit or seek public contributions.
Our grants support a diverse range of recipients, from young individuals to elders and everyone in between. Whether directed towards local non-profits serving Native American communities, students pursuing higher education, aspiring athletes, or individuals confronting unforeseen challenges, our funding is geared towards fostering grassroots positive change.
Through grants to numerous individuals and organizations, we are ambitiously aiming to broaden our positive influence by extending support to over 500 Indigenous communities by 2030.
We Are Committed
Commitment To Community
The foundation is dedicated to supporting Indigenous Peoples and their communities by providing resources and support for programs and initiatives that align with our core values of stewardship, compassion, leadership, and innovation. We hold a deep respect for our Native American heritage and improving our future.
Commitment to Change
The Bear’s Den Charitable Foundation is a testament to the Tarbell family’s unwavering commitment to their community and their desire to bring about great change for the greater good. We are proud to carry on the legacy of Theresa Bear and continue to support Indigenous Peoples and their surrounding communities throughout Turtle Island.
Our Mission and Values
Bear’s Den Charitable Foundation is founded on the belief that every Indigenous person and community has the right to thrive. Our mission is to support Indigenous Peoples and their communities to reach their full potential. To achieve this, we are guided by our core values of Stewardship, Compassion, Leadership, and Innovation.
Stewardship is our commitment to selfless service, putting the needs of Indigenous communities first. Compassion guides us to listen attentively and take thoughtful action in response. We strive to be leaders in our field, creating impact, influence, and inspiration in everything we do. We embrace innovation to find new and creative ways to make a positive difference in the lives of Indigenous Peoples and their communities.
By supporting Bear’s Den Charitable Foundation, you are investing in the future of Indigenous Peoples and their communities and helping to create a brighter future for all. Together, we can make a real difference.
Our Vision
Our goal is to leave a lasting impact on Native American communities as a foundation dedicated to the well-being of Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island. We aim to empower and enrich Indigenous communities through our focus on mind, body, and soul, guided by the teachings and values passed down through our family’s generations. We support programs and initiatives that align with our core values, and a deep respect for our Native American heritage and future.