Programs

In August 2005, Hurricane Katrina changed the Foundation’s role forever. In the immediate aftermath, the Foundation was primarily reactive, making emergency grants to nonprofit organizations working tirelessly to rebuild an overwhelmed community. However, by mid-2007, the Foundation was ready for a more proactive role: to choose selectively the areas where it would strategically invest staff time and its valuable unrestricted grantmaking dollars, for maximum impact.

Focusing on five major areas—Housing, the Environment, Regionalism, Community IMPACT, and Special Initiatives—the Foundation has embraced the role of convener, bringing local and national expertise and funding to a common table. Beyond grantmaking, we research the pressing needs of New Orleans, evaluate solutions, and provide coordinated responses.

Community Revitalization

The Unified New Orleans Plan identified the lack of quality, affordable housing as the primary obstacle to recovery in the city. In response, the Foundation brought together 20 local and national foundations to create a five-year, $25 million fund designated for community revitalization.

Environment

Our region’s future will be shaped by our response to its unique environmental challenges. The Foundation’s goal is to—year after year—encourage resilience, sustainability, and ecological, economic, and cultural vitality through environmentally focused policies, programs, and projects.

Regionalism

The well-being of surrounding parishes is crucial to our region. Believing that the rebuilding process in those communities should be spearheaded and directed by leaders who live and work there, the Foundation established affiliate foundations in St. Bernard, Plaquemines, and Jefferson Parishes.

Community IMPACT

The Community IMPACT program identifies and supports effective nonprofits that strengthen the fabric of our region. We provide funding and resources to organizations dedicated to the Arts & Culture,  Children & Youth, Civic Engagement & Nonprofit Support, Education, Health, and Human & Social Services.

Economic & Workforce Development

The Foundation’s work in this area is evolving.  Current work includes helping economic development organizations access ARRA (Stimulus Package) funds, and working in partnership with other grantmakers to grow the minority middle class by building the capacity of small and disadvantaged businesses to take advantage of contracting opportunities in the region.

Special Initiatives

Through special programming and partnerships, the Foundation connects grantees and community members to resources and each other and helps nonprofits navigate a host of challenging issues.