Business Details
31 Years
experience
Empowering Communities Through Philanthropy
The Arthur M Blank Family Foundation was founded in 1995 with a vision to create sustainable and inclusive communities. Guided by the principles of philanthropy instilled by founder Arthur M. Blank, the foundation focuses on five key areas: Atlanta's Westside, Democracy, Environment, Mental Health & Well-Being, and Youth Development. With a strategic realignment in 2023, the foundation prioritizes Georgia and Montana while seeking national impact.The organization emphasizes core values such as putting people first, inclusivity, innovation, and community empowerment. Over $1.5 billion has been granted to charitable causes, with associate-led giving models fostering employee-driven philanthropy. The foundations approach combines financial support with community engagement to address systemic challenges and drive long-term change.
Services
Atlanta's Westside
Democracy
Environment
Mental Health & Well-Being
Youth Development
Founder Initiatives
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- Established in 1995 with over $1.5 billion in grants awarded.
- Focuses on five priority areas: Atlanta's Westside, Democracy, Environment, Mental Health, and Youth Development.
- Associate-led giving model empowers employees to drive philanthropy.
- Strategic partnerships prioritize measurable, long-term community impact.
- Rooted in values of inclusivity, innovation, and equity-driven change.
Services
Atlanta's Westside
Supporting economic stability for legacy residents through targeted investments. This initiative fosters equitable growth by addressing housing, education, and workforce development needs. Programs aim to preserve cultural heritage while creating opportunities for long-term prosperity in Atlanta's Westside neighborhoods.
Democracy
Strengthening democratic institutions by promoting responsible leadership and civic participation. Efforts focus on increasing voter access, supporting policy reform, and empowering marginalized communities. The foundation funds organizations that enhance transparency and accountability in governance across Georgia and Montana.
Environment
Advancing climate solutions through clean energy adoption and soil health initiatives. Programs reduce carbon emissions while promoting environmental justice. Partnerships with local organizations drive scalable projects that balance ecological preservation with community needs in targeted regions.
Mental Health & Well-Being
Creating pathways to emotional resilience for young people through accessible mental health resources. Initiatives connect youth with counseling services, peer support networks, and wellness programs. The foundation prioritizes culturally responsive care models that address systemic barriers to mental healthcare access.
Youth Development
Expanding opportunities for youth through education and workforce training programs. Initiatives provide vocational skills, mentorship, and entrepreneurship support. The foundation partners with local organizations to create alternative pathways to financial independence for underserved young people in Georgia and Montana.
People
Arthur M. Blank
Chairman
Co-founder of The Home Depot and philanthropist with over 30 years of nonprofit leadership. Championed values-based giving inspired by his mother Molly Blank's principle of 'tikkun olam' (repairing the world).
Fay Twersky
President
Philanthropy leader with expertise in strategic grantmaking and nonprofit management. Previously directed major initiatives at the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. Focuses on advancing equity through data-driven philanthropy and community partnerships.
Kenny Blank
Director
Award-winning journalist and arts nonprofit executive with 20+ years in community development. Serves on multiple civic boards and specializes in cross-sector collaboration for social impact initiatives.
Suzanne Apple
Associate Director
Former senior vice president at World Wildlife Fund with 15 years of experience in corporate sustainability and environmental advocacy. Leads cross-sector partnerships to align business and philanthropy for climate action.
Daniel Shoy, Jr.
Managing Director
Community development expert with 12 years in equitable economic growth strategies. Previously led urban revitalization projects in Atlanta. Specializes in creating workforce pathways for underserved youth populations.
Questions
What is the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation's mission?
Our mission is to create sustainable, inclusive communities by addressing systemic inequities through strategic philanthropy in five key areas.
Which regions does the foundation prioritize?
We focus primarily on Georgia (especially Atlanta) and Montana, with select national initiatives.
How can organizations apply for grants?
Grants are by invitation only; we do not accept unsolicited proposals.
What are the foundation's core values?
We prioritize putting people first, inclusivity, innovation, leading by example, and community empowerment.
How much has the foundation granted to date?
Over $1.5 billion in grants have been awarded to charitable organizations since 1995.
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