Vision, Mission & Values

At Surdna, social justice guides our internal operations, our programmatic work and our grantmaking partnerships.

Vision

A just, equitable, and sustainable society in which all individuals can reach their full potential and all communities can thrive.

Mission

The Surdna Foundation seeks to foster sustainable communities in the United States — communities guided by principles of social justice and distinguished by healthy environments, inclusive economies, and thriving cultures.

For over five generations, the Foundation has been governed largely by descendants of John E. Andrus and has developed a tradition of innovative service for those in need of help or opportunity.

Values

  • Justice – Fair treatment by the institutions, structures and systems that govern our lives.
  • Equity – Equal rights and equal access to opportunity and the resources and services that society offers regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, economic status, or ability.
  • Inclusion – The intentional and consistent creation of a safe and comfortable space wherein policies and practices promote the full participation and sense of belonging of all people.
  • Respect – Acknowledging and accepting the innate dignity, humanity, and value of all people.
  • Humility – Recognizing, accepting and respecting one’s own place within the world’s larger ecosystem of people, who are all equally deserving of respect.
  • Family – Our identity as a family foundation honors and extends beyond the philanthropic legacy of John Andrus. It guides the collaborative way we work with each other and with our partners to achieve our mission.