Mission Statement

The Rochford Foundation’s mission is two-fold: restoration and preservation of a Redlands architectural jewel and historic treasure, the Burrage Mansion, and stewardship of the Burrage Mansion as a sanctuary dedicated to the well-being and happiness of children in need.

Our work is grounded in principles of respect, compassion, and responsibility. Drawing upon the mansion’s beauty and spiritual serenity, we work to create a place of safety and loving kindness, where less-fortunate children have a chance to play and dream.

The Rochford Foundation joins a Redlands tradition of civic generosity. The foundation’s Burrage Mansion offering is intended to inspire and facilitate other nonprofits and individuals in their service to disadvantaged children in our community.

Burrage Mansion

Built in 1901 by mineral magnate Albert Burrage as a holiday home to escape East Coast winters and entertain fellow aristocrats. Purchased in 2007 by energy entrepreneur and Redlands native Tim Rochford to provide a haven of play and enrichment for disadvantaged young children.

Burrage Mansion

Built in 1901 by mineral magnate Albert Burrage as a holiday home to escape East Coast winters and entertain fellow aristocrats. Purchased in 2007 by energy entrepreneur and Redlands native Tim Rochford to provide a haven of play and enrichment for disadvantaged young children.

Activities

The Burrage Mansion is offered without charge to local nonprofits for children’s enrichment activities as well as for a variety of fund-raising events benefiting their organizations.
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Playdays & Overnights

Child-serving nonprofits have access to the house and grounds, and all of our toys, games and sports equipment for children’s playdays, special events or sleepovers.
Enrichment

Enrichment Workshops

Adult volunteers from our community use their expertise and love of children to teach workshops in photography, ceramics, cooking, chess, golf, GIS, guitar… and much, much more.
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Flag-Raising Ceremony

Each year, first-graders from Kingsbury Elementary School lead the flag salute—carrying on a Redlands tradition—at this patriotic ceremony honoring our democracy.
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A Burrage Christmas

Featuring our amazing Christmas decorations as well as live entertainment (including Santa and Mrs. Claus) and thanks to community-wide support, “A Burrage Christmas” has become a much-loved, annual celebration for Redlands families.
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Partner Events

The Rochford Foundation donates use of the Burrage Mansion’s house and grounds to many Redlands-based nonprofits for fundraisers that benefit local children.

Children's Organizations

Child-serving organizations bring their kids to the Burrage Mansion for a variety of activities: playdays, sleepovers, enrichment workshops, and special events.

Community Partners

It is the participation and dedication of other child-serving non-profits and of the many volunteers from the Redlands community that enable Tim Rochford’s vision to come to life.

Volunteer Opportunites

Many people from the Redlands community contribute their time and talent—and plain hard work! The programs at the Burrage Mansion would not be possible without them.

Our Gallery

Jon Harrison
Redlands
City Councilman

Through the generosity of Tim Rochford, the Rochford Foundation has made the Burrage Mansion a beacon of opportunity for underprivileged youth in Redlands. The programs instill a strong sense of self-worth and community pride as these boys and girls grow up to become active citizens.

Mick Gallagher
Redlands business owner & former city councilman

Tim Rochford joins in the traditions of the Watchorn and Shirk families and the Smiley brothers in his dedication and generous support of the City of Redlands. The Burrage Mansion is an important part of our rich history, and he is preserving the past and enhancing the lives of the children in our community with his hospitality. Mr. Rochford is a gift to Redlands, and we truly appreciate him!

Dr. Larry E. Burgess
A. K. Smiley Public Library
Director Emeritus

A historic house and its beautiful grounds preserved to inspire youngsters seeking their dreams—Redlanders are indeed fortunate.

P. T. McEwen
Boys & Girls Club of Redlands
Boys & Girls Club of Redlands

Many club supporters have warm feelings and stories about being a child and growing up around the Burrage Mansion. Now countless numbers of high-risk kids will get to build new memories—building the next generation that will give back to those in need.

Pete Aguilar
31st Congressional District
U.S Representative

The Christmas party is amazing. Seeing all the kids here gives you a high that lasts the whole year.