Founded in 1906 by Leo Samuel, The Standard aims to provide exceptional customer service while contributing to the well-being of the communities where it operates. With a national presence, the company emphasizes a dual focus on customer satisfaction and community support, guided by values of integrity, commitment, and innovation. This ethos extends to its corporate giving, aimed at achieving financial well-being and peace of mind for people, reflecting its culture of caring.
The Standard's grant program focuses on supporting organizations within four main focus areas: Healthy Communities, Disability and Empowerment, Cultural Development, and Education and Advancement. The program funds a wide range of initiatives, including those offering support, training, and rehabilitation to individuals facing significant challenges, empowering people with disabilities, promoting multicultural arts and education, and fostering strategic learning initiatives for children. The types of support provided include general operating support, program support, capital support, event sponsorship, exhibitions, and performance/productions, with grants ranging from $500 to $25,000, and an average gift of $3,000. The overarching goal of their grantmaking is to nurture strong, vibrant communities and support individuals' and families' path to self-sufficiency and success.
Preference is given to initiatives serving communities where employees of The Standard reside and are employed. However, proposals from elsewhere are also eligible for consideration. Projects where The Standard's employees are actively involved as board members or volunteers are particularly favored.