James C & Norma I Smith Foundation

A TRUST-BASED PHILANTHROPIC ORGANIZATION

BACKING ORGANIZATIONS THAT UPLIFT THE MOST VULNERABLE

The James C & Norma I Smith Foundation is committed to building strong relationships with high-impact nonprofits across the United States, focusing on enhancing the quality of life for traditionally underserved communities. Our efforts with these organizations address a spectrum of vital needs: assisting families residing in food deserts with limited access to nutritious food, supporting senior citizens, empowering children and families in areas with scarce growth and development opportunities, and providing care and shelter for companion animals in need of a second chance. These partnerships are a cornerstone of our mission, embodying our dedication to uplift and transform lives.

The mission of the James C & Norma I Smith Foundation is to provide educational, nutritional, medical, and environmental assistance to underserved members of our shared world, with a particular focus on the welfare of children, senior citizens, unemployed/underemployed adults, and animals.

44
grants awarded this year
$3M
dollars granted this year
30
years of grant making

What we fund

Our philanthropic approach is both targeted and relational. We meticulously select and fund nonprofits on the front lines of making a tangible difference in the lives of the most vulnerable. Our five primary areas of focus reflect our commitment to holistic betterment: animal welfare, education, food security, medical aid & advancement, and workforce development. Each organization we support has a significant operational presence within the United States, with their initiatives contributing to a vision where opportunity, care, and compassion are accessible to all and ensuring a stronger, more supportive nation for future generations.

aNIMAL wELFARE

Offering rescue and rehabilitative care, facilitating adoption, and preventing animal cruelty

  • Arizona Animal Welfare League
  • Dallas Pets Alive
  • PAWS Chicago
  • Pets in Need
  • Straydog

eDUCATION

Empowering minds through accessible, quality educational opportunities for all

  • The Bloc
  • Boys & Girls Club of the Valley
  • Bryan's House
  • Carole Robertson Center for Learning
  • Chicago Youth Programs
  • Hephzibah Children's Association
  • Jumpstart
  • KairosPDX
  • Literacy Partners
  • P:ear

fOOD sECURITY

Ensuring nutritious food access in underserved, food-scarce communities

  • 412 Food Rescue
  • Birch Community Services
  • Chef Ann Foundation
  • D.C. Central Kitchen
  • Dion's Chicago Dream
  • The Farmlink Project
  • Food Recovery Network
  • Harvest Against Hunger
  • Rescuing Leftover Cuisine
  • St. Mary's Food Bank Alliance
  • Urban Gleaners
  • Waste Not
  • World Central Kitchen

mEDICAL Aid & Advancement

Delivering relief to those in immediate need and investing in the future of medical advancements

  • Doctors Without Borders
  • Eye Care for Kids
  • HonorHealth Desert Mission
  • Hospice of the Valley
  • Jewish Family & Children's Services of Arizona
  • Mayo Clinic
  • Phoenix House Texas
  • The Visiting Nurse Association of Texas

wORKFORCE DEVelopment

Empowering individuals with essential skills for professional advancement and success

  • Eden Reforestation Projects
  • JobTrain
  • Kitchens for Good
  • LIFT
  • Summit Academy OIC

Additional Impact Areas

Providing support to a diverse range of causes that go beyond the Foundation's core focus areas

  • Friends of Public Radio Arizona
  • McDowell Sonoran Conservancy
  • Sail Martha’s Vineyard