The Gilchrist Foundation aims to continue the philanthropic legacy of the Gilchrist family, focusing on the arts, wildlife and conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. It seeks to fund and provide incentives for non-profit organizations that align with these interests, preferably within the Sioux City area. Emphasizing long-term charity viability and special project support over short-term operational needs, the Foundation particularly values efforts in wildlife habitats, humane treatment of animals, conservation, and the arts, as well as disaster relief efforts.
The Gilchrist Foundation grants program primarily supports pre-selected charities that match its philanthropic goals in the arts, wildlife and conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief, with a geographical preference for organizations operating in the Sioux City area. The Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications, requiring potential grantees to request an invitation to apply. Its grants usually cover a single year, though requests for multi-year funding are considered. The Foundation has a notable interest in funding organizations that cater to wildlife and conservation, reflecting Jocelyn Gilchrist's love for animals and nature; the arts and public broadcasting, aligning with her passions for orchestra music, art museums, theater, and listening to performances on public broadcasting services; and disaster relief, inspired by her concern for people affected by disasters. Additionally, the Foundation has a focus on capital campaign grants, intended to significantly aid renovation or expansion projects that enhance the mission of recipient organizations, showing a historical preference for endowment, capital campaigns, and arts, including fine, cultural, and historical groups.