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 From the President
April 8, 2025
The Surdna Foundation’s Continued Commitment and Our Call for Solidarity

A letter from Don Chen, president of the Surdna Foundation: In recent months, the nonprofit sector has faced unprecedented challenges, particularly the loss of funding from government agencies, fear rippling through communities and the…

Uncategorized
July 24, 2025
Celebrating Staff Updates at Surdna

The Surdna Foundation today announced two staff updates: Silvana Serafimovska is now the director of Grants Management, and Amel Alyamani is now communications manager.  ___________________________________ Silvana Serafimovska joined Surdna in…

News
July 22, 2025
ALERT: Beware of Scam Claiming to Come from Surdna

Beware of a phishing scam claiming to come from a Surdna employee (using the fake email joshuaelliott@surdnafoundation.org) and requesting that recipients conduct job interviews via text and provide personal information.  These messages are…

News
July 1, 2025
The Courage Project Unveils New Slate of Honorees Ahead of July 4th Holiday

Organizations and individuals reflect American generosity and care for community. Public award nomination form now open to the public to honor individuals or organizations making a difference in their communities In celebration of Independence…