We (the founders) are lifelong Pacific Northwest residents. Working in professional fields and traveling in pursuit of scuba diving experiences has given us exposure to many other cultures and people. We’ve seen how alike many of us are worldwide. We’re also aware of how fortunate we are in this country, and we think that more can be done to support the less advantaged in our society.

In the past we have enjoyed our involvement in various educational activities, both as students and as instructors. We value education of all types—whether general, professional, vocational, or art & performance—and believe educational opportunities should be available based on one's individual abilities and aptitude regardless of financial means.

We have had many friends who were musicians or other stage performers, which leads to our desire to support this community. Our own unique history with music has inspired us to support outlets providing a wider range of music to the public. Through family members and volunteer work, we understand the need to provide support to disabled people. Our history as divers, travelers, and Northwest residents has made us aware of how important it is to save or recover as much of the existing environment and biological reserve as we can.

About the Trees Logo

When we first set up the Foundation, we had just read “The Hidden Life of Trees” (Peter Wohlleben, 2015). In it, the author detailed his findings on communication between trees, intermediary organisms, and the surrounding environment in his study of a mature forest in Germany. One point in the book that struck a chord with us is how connected life is in so many ways and forms. This echoed the many instances of interaction and cooperation in the underwater ecosystems we observed while scuba diving. It is this sense of community that we would like to foster. We think an analogy can be made between the interconnectedness of the natural world and supporting people and the community around us.