Why does a public park that is financed by the federal government need donations?
Federal dollars support baseline operations and activities at Grand Canyon National Park. In fact, only 80% of Grand Canyon’s entrance fees stay in the park. The other 20% is used by the National Park Service to support other sites where entrance fees are not collected. When you give to the Grand Canyon Association, you are helping the park by supporting new and innovative projects at Grand Canyon.

How are donations used?
Giving to the Grand Canyon continues a tradition of private philanthropy for the Canyon dating back to the early 1900's. Private philanthropy plays an important role in the enhancement and preservation of Grand Canyon National Park and the preservation of its unique natural, historic, and cultural resources. Renovations to the historic Kolb photographic studio, trail restoration, funding for wildlife internships, and environmental education grants are just a few examples of the work made possible through philanthropy.

Contributions to the Canyon also support improvements like the Grand Canyon Greenway, visitor safety efforts like the “Hike Smart” campaign and preservation of wildlife like the condor and mountain lion in their native habitat. To learn more about the impact of donors at the park, click here.

What is Grand Canyon Association’s relationship with the National Park Service?
Grand Canyon Association operates under an agreement with the National Park Service which allows it to solicit contributions to benefit the park. Grand Canyon Association is similar to one of the many "Friends" organizations affiliated with national parks across the country. The Grand Canyon Association also serves as a “cooperating association”, serving visitors through the operation of bookstores, membership opportunities and a field institute at the park.

How are projects chosen?
The park superintendent’s office submits a list of projects to GCA that would otherwise not be funded but have been determined to be critical to accomplishing the park service's mission at the park. The GCA board of directors works with the superintendent’s office to review and select projects from this list.

What recognition does an individual or corporate sponsor receive?
Donors are recognized in Grand Canyon Association publications, in media presentations, and, as appropriate, on temporary signs at project locations. At higher giving levels, donors are recognized in a public display at the central visitor center on the South Rim. Corporate donors may publicize their sponsorship of park projects through media approved by the park service.

What can I do?
There are many ways to help. Make a donation to GCA; become a GCA member; volunteer for projects in which you have a specific interest or expertise; tell others of the need and help us build a community of people dedicated to conserving Grand Canyon for the future.

What is your policy on donors’ and members’ rights?
The Grand Canyon Association has adopted the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Donor Bill of Rights.