Supporting Just and Sustainable Communities

Our History

The Surdna Foundation was founded in 1917 by John Emory Andrus to pursue a range of philanthropic purposes. To this day, family stewardship of the Foundation is guided by Andrus’ commitment to serving those in need.

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Programs

Through our investments, we dismantle the barriers that limit opportunities to create more prosperous, enriching, and sustainable communities. Taken together, our investments build capacity, spark innovation, and connect stakeholders while encouraging lesson-sharing between grantees.

Inclusive Economies

We support and invest in the growth of robust, sustainable economies with diverse businesses owned by people of color and the advancement of equitable economic development.

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Sustainable Environments

We support the creation of just and sustainable communities in which low-wealth and communities of color have the power to self-determine the ownership, control and stewardship of land and its infrastructure assets.

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Thriving Cultures

We invest in artists, culture-bearers, designers, and media-makers of color who partner with their communities to radically imagine justice and foster the conditions for just systems and practices to be adopted.

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Latest News & Events Learn More

Featured News
November 29, 2023
José Cuevas and Saida Harrigan Join the Surdna Foundation

This month the Surdna Foundation welcomed José Cuevas (he/him) as Executive Assistant for the Office of the President and Saida Harrigan (she/her) as the Writer and Editor for Communications & Engagement.   José Cuevas works closely and…

Thriving Cultures
October 19, 2023
Surdna Foundation Announces $1 Million Grant to New Orleans based Ashé Cultural Arts Center

The grant commemorates Ashé Cultural Arts Center’s 25-year commitment to supporting art, culture, imagination, and economic resilience in New Orleans The Surdna Foundation’s Thriving Cultures Program announced today a $1 million grant to…

Inclusive Economies
September 27, 2023
Danielle LeBlanc Appointed Program Officer, Inclusive Economies at the Surdna Foundation 

The Surdna Foundation today announced the appointment of Danielle LeBlanc as Program Officer, Inclusive Economies, starting September 2023.   Danielle will manage a $10 million grant portfolio that advances the Foundation’s social justice…

Andrus Family Fund
September 12, 2023
Lincoln Mondy Appointed Program Officer, Andrus Family Fund

The Andrus Family Fund (AFF), a program of the Surdna Foundation, today announced the appointment of Lincoln Mondy as Program Officer, starting August 2023.   Lincoln will help guide a $5 million grant portfolio and manage field leadership and…