The John and Susan Dewan Foundation aims to provide hope and a future to individuals in poverty by backing U.S. based charitable organizations that empower people to help themselves. Established in January 2000 after John and Susan Dewan sold STATS, Inc., the foundation supports initiatives that enable self-sufficiency, focusing particularly on programs within Chicago and for USA-based organizations aiding those in poverty overseas.
The grant program by the John and Susan Dewan Foundation is primarily dedicated to U.S. based charitable organizations aiming to assist individuals in overcoming poverty through self-help. Specifically, in the Chicago area, it supports services for homeless individuals including case management, education, training, and preparation for stable housing and employment. For organizations working in developing countries, the focus is on education, job creation, and economic development. Priority is given to projects that transform lives, with a special interest in faith-based organizations, particularly those in the Roman Catholic tradition. The foundation favors smaller organizations and offers grants generally not exceeding $2,500 for a single year, with the possibility of subsequent funding.