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 John T. Gorman Foundation operates primarily through invitation-only grants, focusing on place-based initiatives, two-generation solutions, systems reform support, and innovation and replication. These strategic priorities are aimed at improving results for vulnerable populations in Maine by investing in well-reasoned, measurable, researched-based ideas and initiatives that can achieve lasting, measurably improved outcomes. While the Foundation does modestly support direct services for immediate needs, the bulk of its efforts and resources are directed toward addressing the root causes of disadvantage through prevention-focused ideas and initiatives.