Environmental philanthropy is at the heart of Colcom Foundation‘s identity, but the Pittsburgh-based organization has also made a lasting mark on the cultural and social life of its home region. Since its founding in 1996 by Cordelia Scaife May, the Foundation has provided funding for arts organizations, historic preservation, and educational programs that have helped shape the character of communities across Western Pennsylvania. These investments reflect May’s belief that a healthy community needs both natural and cultural vitality.

Preserving Heritage and Stimulating Growth

Colcom Foundation has funded the preservation of historic sites and supported local arts initiatives that might otherwise lack sustainable financial backing. These cultural investments carry practical consequences: preserved historic districts and vibrant arts scenes attract visitors, support local businesses, and contribute to the kind of civic identity that makes a place worth living in. The Foundation’s community philanthropy has helped revitalize neighborhoods and enrich public life in ways that complement its environmental mission. Colcom Foundation supports several special programs, including the Conservation Catalyst Fund, which grants conservation organizations working to protect threatened species and habitats. By offering financial support and resources, this foundation allows these groups to make significant strides in conservation efforts.

Education as a Long-Term Investment

Educational programs supported by Colcom Foundation aim to foster a deeper appreciation for both the natural and cultural heritage of the Pittsburgh region. By funding programs that connect residents, particularly young people, to the landscapes and history around them, the Foundation invests in the long-term stewardship of the place it calls home. With more than $500 million in grants distributed since 1996, Colcom Foundation has demonstrated that environmental and community philanthropy are not competing priorities, but mutually reinforcing ones. Read this article for more information.

Find more information about Colcom Foundation on https://www.guidestar.org/profile/31-1479839