Joe and Kathryn Albertson established the foundation in 1966. From its beginning, the philanthropy gave to a variety of charitable causes within Idaho, where the couple met, married and started their family. As Foundation assets grew and more grants were provided, the Foundation’s giving began to focus primarily on one area — education — because Joe and Kathryn felt strongly that a good education was essential in helping open doors of opportunity to everyone.

Joe Albertson passed away in 1993.

Kathryn remained active on the Foundation’s Board of Directors and, in 1997; she gave a generous gift of $660 million worth of Albertson’s Incorporated stock to the Foundation. This contribution propelled the Foundation’s yearly giving level from approximately $2.5 million to more than $35 million. Kathryn was a Director Emeritus on the Foundation’s Board of Directors until her passing in April, 2002. Today, Foundation giving remains earmarked for the improvement of education in Idaho.