Mariner Foundation
Associate Funded Donations of
Over $9.6
Million
Contributions Made to
Over 1,100 Organizations
Impacting Organizations in
Over 41
States
Who We Are
Mariner’s CEO and President, Marty Bicknell, has long held the belief that to whom much is given, much is expected. It is that belief that makes giving back to our communities central to Mariner’s culture and why the Mariner Foundation was established in 2009. The Foundation was created to expand Mariner’s community impact by engaging associates under the core purpose of supporting underprivileged children and their families. Today, our mission has broadened in scope to positively impact the lives of many in the communities where our associates live and work. It is the Foundation’s vision to create positive change in our communities by embracing our associates’ philanthropic passions.
How to Participate
The foundation is funded through associate contributions that are matched dollar-for-dollar by Mariner. With no overhead expenses, 200% of your donation directly impacts those in need. All donations are tax deductible. Associates can contribute to the Mariner Foundation by signing up for payroll deduction or by making a one-time donation by credit/debit card, check, through a personal donor advised fund. As a firm, our goal is to have 75% participation in charitable giving across all Mariner associates.
For more information contact [email protected].
View Mariner Foundation Program Guidelines.
Find the grant request survey here.
Annual Impact Report
In 2024, the Foundation released its first Annual Impact Report to share a clear and comprehensive overview of the difference we are making in the communities where we live and work. The report provides insight into our background and history, outlines our core areas of impact, and highlights how our resources and partnerships are creating positive change. Moving forward, the Annual Impact Report will be released each spring and is designed to be shared both internally and externally.
Giving Gift Award
Across all locations, Mariner associates come together throughout the year to fundraise, volunteer, and champion charitable organizations in their communities. The Mariner Foundation Board created the Giving Gift Award to shine a spotlight on those locations that set an example of the true philanthropic spirit we at Mariner strive toward. The location that wins the Award is granted $25,000 toward the charity of their choice, further supporting and impacting our communities!
Mariner Foundation Board
Katrina Radenberg
Bob Anderson
Stephanie Blake
Robert Domsch
Michelle Grillone
Amanda Salemi
DD Tucker
Giving Council
If your location is not listed and you or someone you know is interested in serving on the council, please contact Cassie Bicknell.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I submit a request?
Survey links are posted monthly and can be found pinned to the top of News – Mariner Foundation on Workvivo.
How often are grants reviewed?
The board meets monthly, typically around the third week of the month to review current grant request. Awarded grants are posted to Workvivo following their meeting. If a grant is not approved, the board will follow up with the requester with more information and next steps.
What if I have a prospect or client that has a charity I would like to ask the Mariner Foundation to support?
If it is something you feel strongly about supporting and think it is something that is in line with the Foundation’s mission, you as an associate are welcome to fill out a request. If you want to support it just for the purpose of gaining or retaining the relationship, that is a business decision and the support should not be asked of the Mariner Foundation.
How do I find out if my grant was approved?
Awarded grants are posted monthly to News-Mariner Foundation on workplace. If a grant is not approved, the board will follow up with the requester with more information and next steps.
Can I share the grant request survey with a client or individual outside of our organization?
No. The Mariner Foundation grant request survey is only meant for Mariner associates and any form filled out by someone other than an associate will not be reviewed by the Board.
How frequently can I submit requests?
There is no limit the number of grants an associate can request. In general, the Board will only award up to $5,000 to one organization in a single calendar year.
The Mariner Foundation supported an organization in the past. Will future grant requests for that organization be automatically approved?
No. Each grant request is reviewed anew in light of (1) evolving board membership, (2) current funding availability, and (3) ensuring each grant’s continued alignment with the Foundation’s mission. Regardless of prior approvals, each grant request should clearly demonstrate the alignment between the organization’s activity and the Foundation’s mission as well as show the personal connection between the requester and the cause and/or organization.
Is there an example of best practices for filling out a grant request?
Yes. Click here for an excellent example of a grant request. The most well submitted grant requests are when an associate exhibits their personal involvement/passion for an organization. It is the boards responsibility to ensure associates aren’t using the foundation as a mechanism to pass through grant requests from those outside of our organization just for the sake of doing so.
Does the Mariner Foundation sponsor fundraising events hosted by non-profits?
The Mariner Foundation can sponsor events but we are unable to accept any goods or services in exchange for our donation. This includes an event table, golf team, etc.
How do I submit an idea for a volunteer event?
Contact your locations Giving Council Representative.
How do I apply to be a Board member?
The Foundation is comprised of a seven-member associate run board. Member’s serve a two-year term with annual elections. Applications for open seats are posted annually to News-Mariner Foundation on Workvivo.