The Lloyd A. Fry Foundation is dedicated to alleviating the persistent problems faced by urban Chicago's low-income, underserved communities, stemming from poverty, violence, ignorance, and despair. It aims to enhance individual capacities and the systems supporting them, envisioning a Chicago where education, prosperity, and hope are accessible to all. The Foundation's mission encompasses improving conditions and fostering learning and innovation for those in need.
This describes a grant application process that emphasizes the importance of initial, low-effort engagement through a letter of inquiry before committing to a full application. The letter allows applicants to receive preliminary feedback on how well their request aligns with the funding priorities of the grantor. Applicants are advised to allow 30 days for a response from program officers, indicating an organized review process that respects the applicants' time and resources while ensuring alignment with the funder's goals.
The Foundation prioritizes initiatives targeting middle and high schools, especially those in underserved areas with a high number of students of color. In all of its three main program areas, the foundation focuses on:
Furthermore, the Foundation supports policy advocacy efforts designed to ensure that individuals and communities with low incomes in Chicago receive equitable treatment and access to necessary services.