Leo S. Guthman Fund
/OVERVIEW: The Leo S. Guthman Fund awards grants to organizations working in the fields of youth summer employment, social services and veterans causes. It also sets aside funds for high-impact or emergency funding opportunities that align with its overarching funding goals.
IP TAKE: LSGF is in a sunsetting phase, so it’s now or never to tap into this Chicago funder’s assets. Application is by invitation only.
PROFILE: The Leo S. Guthman Fund (LSGF) is a private family funder that provides grants to nonprofits that support summer employment for youth, social services and veterans causes. It has supported over 300 organizations since 2003. Prior to his death in 2003, Leo S. Guthman was a Chicago investor, art collector, and philanthropist who was known for his striking presence and friendly demeanor. For two decades, he was the president of chemical coating and industrial packaging manufacturer Bradley & Vrooman, Co. The funder aims to “unite communities and tackle the challenges of vulnerable people, assist veterans, and provide for basic needs.” In 2018, the fund began to wind down its grantmaking; it expects to conclude all programs in the next few years.
Guthman’s youth employment funding focuses on providing urban youth with meaningful and gainful employment that provides the opportunity to learn about careers and responsibility. The foundation’s social service funding prioritizes underserved populations, including the elderly and disabled of Chicago. Veteran’s funding has supported mental health, housing and employment initiatives.
Foundation grants can reach amounts up to $10,000. Past grantees include Housing Opportunities & Maintenance for the Elderly, the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, the Albany Park Theater Project, Lawrence Hall Youth Services and War Dogs Making It Home. View a comprehensive list of past grantees on the funder’s website. Although Chicago is at the heart of Guthman grantmaking, discretionary grants are also made by LSGF trustees nationwide. Since deciding to sunset over the next few years, renewal grants are funded at reduced amounts and there are limited opportunities to invite new proposals. Prospective grantees are advised to check the foundation’s site for its remaining grant opportunities.
The foundation only accepts proposals by invitation. There are two giving cycles per year, with proposal deadlines on January 15 and August 15. Direct general inquiries to the staff at 312-641-5776 and or submit them via online form.
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