The J. Bulow Campbell Foundation, established through the estate of J. Bulow Campbell in 1940, is dedicated to reflecting the philosophy of giving, legacy of careful stewardship, and Christian faith of its founder. A focus on modesty and frugality underpins the Foundation's activities, which are conducted without seeking public recognition. Governed by a volunteer board of trustees, the Foundation has evolved from a $7 million initial fund to awarding over $800 million in grants, adhering closely to Campbell's instructions.
The Foundation primarily supports organizations within Atlanta and Georgia, with some consideration given to entities in the surrounding five states. It awards grants on a quarterly basis, mostly for capital purposes. Key focus areas include education, youth development, human services, public spaces, and cultural institutions. This grant program emphasizes Mr. Campbell's commitment to improving society through targeted, impactful philanthropy in specified sectors, reflecting his Christian values and business acumen.
When reviewing applications from educational institutions, preference is offered to privately-funded and accredited establishments. Moreover, institutions with a Christian focus that promote Christian values on campus receive special attention. The Foundation primarily allocates its resources towards capital projects over contributions to ongoing operational costs or programs.