The John T. Gorman Foundation, based in Portland, Maine, is dedicated to improving the lives of Maine’s most vulnerable people by advancing and investing in innovative ideas and opportunities. Stemming from the life philosophy of its founder, John "Tom" Gorman, the Foundation focuses on improving educational achievement for young children, promoting successful transitions to adulthood for vulnerable older youth, helping struggling parents support their families, and enabling low-income seniors to age in place. It aims to strengthen families and communities by providing the supports and opportunities needed to thrive, especially in the face of challenges like poor educational outcomes, declining economic opportunity, and financial insecurity in Maine.
The Direct Service Grant Program by the John T. Gorman Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that meet the basic needs of vulnerable populations in Maine, including addressing hunger, housing, and crisis support. The program is dedicated to helping those in immediate need, reflecting the foundation's broader goals of improving educational outcomes for young children, aiding vulnerable older youth in their transition to adulthood, assisting struggling parents to support their families, and enabling low-income seniors to age in place. This approach is based on the understanding that meeting these objectives is crucial for preventing dire consequences for current and future generations.