Always a lover of learning, John and his wife, Judy, visited Japan several times to study and implement an innovative concept at the time – Just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing. He also relished mentoring young people interested in business, finance, and manufacturing, incorporating lessons on confidentiality, self-presentation, and promptness.

To pay tribute to the community that gave so much to him and his family, the Dunham Foundation was established in 1996 to “make the world a more comfortable, safer place for mankind to live and prosper.” The Foundation became active shortly after John passed away in 2006, with the first grants awarded in 2007. Honoring John’s love of education – and his life and career as an entrepreneur, manufacturer, and mentor – the Dunham Foundation strives to honor his vision for building a healthy, thriving community.

The Dunham Foundation seeks grant applications from nonprofits whose work aligns with the Foundation’s mission. Organizations that encourage innovation and collaboration in educational and community development programs and projects to effect positive change in the Dunham Foundation service area.