The Mining Foundation of the Southwest (MFSW) is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation located in Tucson, AZ. It was incorporated in 1982 by combining the Mining Club of the Southwest and the Mining Club of the Southwest Foundation. The purpose of the Foundation is to enlighten the public and promote the values of the mining industry, to honor its past, to ensure its future, and to aid fundraising efforts in support of such purposes. At its annual fundraiser, the American Mining Hall of Fame honors the achievement of industry leaders and all funds raised from sponsorship are earmarked for outreach. In addition to supporting the Lowell Institute for Mineral Resources' Outreach Program at the University of Arizona, the MFSW also supports the Society for Mining Metallurgy & Exploration and the Society of Economic Geologists Student Chapters at various mining schools across the United States. Membership is offered to anyone interested in fostering the goals of the Foundation but only Voting, Silver, Gold, Sustaining and Honorary Members are extended voting privileges and eligibility to serve as Board Member.