Pendleton Foundation Trust Announces Establishment of the Jill and Mike Thorne Western Heritage Fund

Pendleton Foundation Trust is proud to announce the establishment of the Jill and Mike Thorne Western Heritage Fund, a new philanthropic resource dedicated to strengthening the cultural and economic vitality of Pendleton.

The fund is designed to support projects at the Pendleton Round-Up, Happy Canyon, and the Pendleton Round-Up and Happy Canyon Hall of Fame, institutions that have shaped the identity of Pendleton and stand as symbols of the community’s Western heritage.

“The Jill and Mike Thorne Western Heritage Fund is a meaningful tribute to the organizations that embody Pendleton’s spirit,” said Tiffany Hegarty, Executive Director of Pendleton Foundation Trust. “By investing in these iconic organizations, Jill and Mike Thorne are helping to preserve our heritage while fueling community vitality through tourism, small business growth, and a strong sense of place.”

The Thornes, whose leadership and service have long impacted Pendleton and Oregon at large, chose Pendleton Foundation Trust as the steward of their vision.

“Pendleton Foundation Trust has a deep legacy of investing in this community since 1928,” said Jill and Mike. “Our hope is that the earnings from this fund will not only strengthen the Round-Up, Happy Canyon, and the Hall of Fame, but also be used to leverage additional support from other partners, bringing more resources into Pendleton and creating a positive impact on the community as a whole.”

Grant requests from these organizations will be considered once earnings are available for distribution, with priority placed on projects that leverage additional resources and expand the community-wide cultural and economic impact.

About Jill and Mike Thorne

Jill and Mike Thorne have been leaders in Pendleton and across Oregon for decades. Mike, a former state senator, also led the Port of Portland and Washington State Ferry System before returning home to serve on the Pendleton Round-Up Association Board and other civic roles. Jill, who held state leadership positions including chair of the Oregon Trail Sesquicentennial, has been equally devoted to Pendleton’s civic and cultural life.

In 2019, both were named Pendleton’s Woman and Man of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce, recognizing their decades of service and impact. Together, they’ve championed the Round-Up centennial, downtown revitalization, and efforts to position Pendleton as a year-round tourist destination. Their commitment continues through this new fund, which honors the city’s Western heritage and ensures its cultural institutions remain strong, sustainable, and vibrant for years to come.