Greater Cincinnati Foundation

Building Thriving Communities Greater Cincinnati Foundation’s mission is to connect generous people with trusted nonprofits to create a vibrant tri-state region where every person has a fair opportunity to thrive. As the region's leading community foundation, it’s our role to act as a partner, funder, and connector – creating trusted relationships with generous people, nonprofits and community stakeholders to improve quality of life across the region. Since 1963, we have been inspired by your passion and generosity – it fuels our work. Together, we’re making investments in arts and culture, education, housing affordability, health care, job creation, environmental sustainability, human services and more. Your unwavering commitment to our community is making a lasting difference. The GCF Difference as a Philanthropic Partner When you partner with GCF to achieve your charitable goals, you can look forward to collaborating with a multidisciplinary team that has a deep commitment to the tristate region. Our philanthropic advisors and community strategy experts are uniquely positioned to offer - Personalized service built on respect, experience and trust. - Deep knowledge of critical community needs and effective nonprofits addressing these needs. - Opportunities to connect with trusted nonprofits that align with your passions and important community initiatives. - Deep understanding of creating a meaningful life and future legacy through philanthropy. - Flexible charitable tools to achieve your unique financial and charitable goals. - Amplified outcomes through collective giving and trusted community partnerships Our History In 1963, a group of Greater Cincinnati business people became captivated by the success community foundations in other cities were enjoying. They decided to bring that success to Cincinnati. Meanwhile, the board of the Fresh Air and Convalescent Aid Society, founded in 1884 as an organization that gave women and children living in crowded tenements an opportunity to escape cramped living quarters for two weeks in the summer, realized its mission had become outdated. Soon after, The Fresh Air and Convalescent Aid Society disbanded. In need of an alternative charitable use for its $600,000 endowment, local business leaders and the Fresh Air Board came together in search of a solution. Greater Cincinnati Foundation was born, and The Fresh Air and Convalescent Aid Society’s funding became GCF’s first unrestricted fund.