Marion I. and Henry J. Knott Foundation

**Mission** The Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Foundation is a Catholic family foundation committed to honoring our founders’ legacy of generosity to strengthen our community. **Values** Working as a family, we are guided by the following shared beliefs and values: ***Understanding*** and responding to the needs of our community through informed grantmaking ***Respecting*** the values of the Roman Catholic faith ***Engaging*** in the ongoing education of trustees and staff in the field of philanthropy and the nonprofit community ***Ensuring*** good stewardship of the resources entrusted to our use ***Encouraging*** open communication, compassion, respect and trust among community, staff and family **Donor Intent** To accomplish our goals and honor the legacy of our founders, the Foundation is guided by the following core principles: **Faith First** – align giving with the values of the Catholic faith and prioritize the Catholic community. **Opportunity Opens Doors and Hearts** – provide people opportunities to be successful and get ahead as a means to engender a spirit of gratitude & generosity. **Character Counts** – look at character, and give to leaders and organizations that exude integrity and have a high standard of accountability. **Use Business Sense** – make charitable giving decisions much like in business (look at financial soundness, impact, etc.), and don’t fund a sinking ship. **Strengthen the Community** – give locally, in Baltimore, and in ways that both meet needs, and that grow and strengthen the local community.