Leslie E. Tassell Avicultural Foundation

The Foundation was established in October, 2000, with a generous donation from Mr. Leslie E. Tassell, a retired businessman from Grand Rapids, Michigan. At their annual meeting, the Board of Directors approved a motion that only the interest from the fund be used for projects such as protecting endangered species, establishing breeding centers, legislative issues, or other avicultural projects. A committee was appointed to oversee the fund. Members of the committee were Bernie Jager, chairman; Bev Ure, Lloyd Ure, and Don Bruning. Bernie Jager continues as chairman of the APWS committee overseeing the Leslie E. Tassell Avicultural Foundation. Other members of the committee are: Don Bruning, Edmund Newton, Bill Branch, and Don Steurer.

Since 2000, the Leslie E. Tassell Avicultural Foundation has awarded $9,000.00 in scholarships and grants. A small or large donation to the Leslie E. Tassell Avicultural Foundation will help insure the freedom of aviculture for those interested in conservation, propagation, and raising endangered species in captivity. This can be done through research and the education of our young people. We hope individuals, local, and state clubs will join us in this endeavor.