About Us
We’re here for the long haul
The Ford Family Foundation is a nonprofit, private foundation proudly headquartered in Roseburg, Oregon, serving rural Oregon and Siskiyou County, California. Our investments through grants, scholarships and community building create the conditions for children to have the family, educational and community supports they need to succeed in life.
A leader in rural philanthropy
Less than 5% of national philanthropic funding supports rural areas, and only a small number of foundations in the country claim rural development as their mission. The Ford Family Foundation is one of those privileged few.
What we believe
We believe in the power of rural communities.
Communities create the conditions that allow children and families to thrive. They are the backbone of our democracy. We believe that a community works best when it works for all of its members, especially for those who are disadvantaged or excluded due to poverty, race or ethnicity and geography. Our investments provide rural communities with the tools and capacities they need to build a vital future for themselves — a future where every resident can thrive.
We believe that the future depends on finding common cause and mobilizing collective effort.
Communities and their residents are diverse. We believe that healthy communities harness the strength that comes from those differences and create a sense of belonging and commitment to the greater good. Our investments build on the wisdom of rural residents and seek ways to ensure that every voice is heard and respected. Creating a vibrant future is a complex task. It needs all of us — together.
We believe that every person has the potential to succeed in life.
We believe in the value of education, gainful employment and self-determination for all people regardless of the circumstances of their birth. At the same time, we know that many people do not have access to the opportunities and supports that enable their success. Our investments address this opportunity gap. We also know that people encounter obstacles along the way, and we aim to help them overcome those challenges.
Family
Providing children with a nurturing, safe and stable foundation for life.
Education
Helping young people attain educational success.
Community
Creating vibrant places that provide opportunities for everyone to prosper.