19.3 Engaging Foundations to Support Local Government Initiatives

Philanthropy is the act of promoting the welfare of others, typically through the donation of money, resources, or time to support causes and initiatives that address social, cultural, health, and environmental issues. Philanthropy can be practiced by individuals, corporations, and other organizations, and it encompasses a wide range of activities, from funding research and education to providing disaster relief and supporting the arts.

Foundations are philanthropic organizations that provide funding and support for various charitable activities and projects. They can be established by wealthy individuals, families, corporations, or community groups that pool their money together, each with unique focus areas and funding priorities. Unlike for-profit businesses, their primary goal is to advance the public good through grants, donations, and other financial contributions to nonprofit organizations, research institutions, and community initiatives.

Local governments often engage with foundations to advance projects and pursue goals that require additional funding and expertise. These partnerships can be vital in areas such as public health, education, community development, and environmental sustainability. For example, a city government might collaborate with a local foundation to fund and implement a new public park, ensuring that the project has the necessary resources and community support. Foundations can provide grants, technical assistance, and strategic guidance, allowing local governments to undertake projects that might be beyond their financial capabilities.

Moreover, foundations can help local governments pursue long-term goals by funding innovative pilot programs and research initiatives. This allows governments to test new approaches and gather data before committing public resources on a larger scale. By leveraging the financial resources and specialized knowledge of foundations, local governments can enhance their capacity to address complex community challenges and drive meaningful change. This collaboration not only brings additional resources to public projects but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility and partnership in improving community well-being.

Cleveland is a foundation-rich city, home to dozens of grant-making institutions, including community, private, family, and corporate foundations, all dedicated to serving Cuyahoga County. These foundations play a crucial role in funding a wide array of initiatives aimed at improving the community’s quality of life. Among them, the Cleveland Foundation and the George Gund Foundation stand out for their significant impact and enduring commitment to the region. The following subsections will explore the history, mission, and contributions of these two prominent foundations.

The Cleveland Foundation

The Cleveland Foundation, established in 1914, is a prominent example of a philanthropic organization in Northeast Ohio and is recognized as the first community foundation in the United States. As a leader in innovative philanthropy, the Cleveland Foundation provides funding and support for a wide range of community initiatives, including education, economic development, public health, and the arts.

One notable project supported by the foundation is the revitalization of the Greater University Circle neighborhoods, which includes initiatives to improve housing, support local businesses, and enhance public transportation. Through its grantmaking, the Cleveland Foundation has made significant contributions to the revitalization of Cleveland’s neighborhoods, the enhancement of public spaces, and the promotion of social equity, solidifying its role as a pivotal force in advancing the public good.

A program you can take advantage of is the Cleveland Foundation’s Public Service Fellowship program, which frequently has more Levin School alumni than graduates from other universities. This program prepares recent college graduates to lead through a comprehensive 12-month, full-time paid placement at a selected public sector agency or a nonprofit partner in Cleveland, providing meaningful career-related work experience. The fellowship offers a $44,000 salary with health benefits and a $1,000 signing bonus. Participants engage in professional development sessions administered by Cleveland Foundation staff and professionals with expertise in their fields. This includes first-hand opportunities to network and connect with a diverse array of senior leaders, organizations, and community members. Click here to learn more.