Griffith Family Foundation

OVERVIEW: The Griffith Family Foundation supports arts and culture, education and the economy in Georgia.

FUNDING AREAS: Arts and culture, education, economy

IP TAKE: This is a very locally focused foundation, but one that can be challenging to secure support from as a first-time, unaffiliated grantseeker. Contact the foundation and introduce your work to get on its radar.

PROFILE: Established in 1993, the Griffith Family Foundation (GFF) is a family foundation based in Macon, Georgia. This is the foundation of Benjamin Griffith III, who is a landowner, businessman, novelist and philanthropist. He owns thousands of acres of land in the Southeast, collaborated on a local poverty and economy initiative and gives back regularly to his local community. The foundation is "committed to supporting efficient 501(c)(3) organizations that enhance the quality of life for citizens in the Macon-Bibb community,” and it “envisions a vibrant community in Macon-Bibb, one that is poised for growth and offers cultural, educational and economic opportunities to all its citizens” It funds local efforts for arts and culture, education and the economy.

The Griffith Family Foundation is an equity funder that pursues social justice based on its strategic priorities. GFF commonly funds efforts for community empowerment, creating opportunity and capacity building. It looks to address structural injustices on the individual level and the community level in its home region. Grants often go to institutions of higher education, social services, children’s causes and Baptist organizations. Economic mobility, rural areas, the arts and scholarships for local students are also interests of the founder.

Grants range between about $500 and $25,000. Learn more about this funder’s local giving by examining its recent tax records. Grantmaking focuses on Central Georgia and especially the counties of Macon and Bibb. Past local grantees include GA Sheriff’s Youth Homes, Georgia Public Broadcasting and Historic Macon.

This foundation does not typically accept unsolicited grant applications from nonprofits and only funds pre-selected organizations. Direct general questions to the staff at 478-477-1000 or via online form.

PEOPLE:

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