Attention: Please pardon us while we align our Web site with the new focus for our work. This page reflects our earlier work but will remain up for a transition period so you can see the evolution between past and future programs. Stay tuned as our Web site introduces more information on our new strategies in the months ahead.
We work mainly by making grants and loans to improve lives, build knowledge, and strengthen organizations and networks. Our work is organized into three broad programs that contribute to the fulfillment of our mission.
Programs
Most of the foundation's grants are made within three main program areas: Asset Building and Community Development; Peace and Social Justice; and Knowledge, Creativity and Freedom. Each is led by a vice president responsible for grant-making directors and program officers who work in the United States and 12 overseas offices. Grants are made in 13 key fields.
Signature Initiatives
In addition to grant making through our main program areas, we occasionally undertake major initiatives that reflect elements of all our programs. These Signature Initiatives usually require significant funding over a period of years in an effort to make a groundbreaking impact in a particular area. Many of our Signature Initiatives—including GrantCraft and the International Fellowships Program—have evolved into stand-alone organizations.
Partnerships
In two regions where we do not maintain offices, we have formed partnerships with organizations whose work coincides with our interests. Our long-term support for Israel and Eastern Europe has been expanded through the significant work of the New Israel Fund in Jerusalem and the Trust for Civil Society in Central and Eastern Europe in Sofia, Bulgaria.