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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Meet Andrus Family Fund's New Interim Director

A letter from Andrus Family Fund's Nyoka Acevedo: Dearest AFF Community, After two incredible years at the Andrus Family Fund (AFF), I am nervous and excited to share that my family is moving abroad, and my last day as interim director will…

Reports & Publications

June 15, 2022

Toward climate justice—A 10+ year evolution

What is climate justice? How are foundations incorporating it into their work and making a positive impact? Author Seema Shah, Ph.D. explores these questions in "Centering equity and justice in climate philanthropy." Commissioned by Ariadne and…

Thriving Cultures

June 15, 2022

Introducing the 2022 Just Tech Fellows

"The Just Tech fellows are acting on the urgent need to create technology that serves the public interest, and not just the interests of powerful elites. We need to do a better job supporting the people who care for humanity. So, all fellows will…

News

May 11, 2022

Sophy Yem Promoted to Senior Program Officer, Philanthropy

We are thrilled to announce Sophy Yem’s promotion to Senior Program Officer, Philanthropy at the Surdna Foundation. In this role, Sophy will continue to lead the Foundation’s grantmaking, engagement, and relationships to support the…