James C & Norma I Smith Foundation

A TRUST-BASED PHILANTHROPIC ORGANIZATION

Backing high-impact nonprofits

The James C & Norma I Smith Foundation partners with high-impact nonprofits across the United States to enhance the quality of life for underserved communities. Our work spans vital areas: providing care and shelter for companion animals in need of a second chance, addressing the immediate medical needs of vulnerable populations, empowering children and families in areas with scarce growth and development opportunities, and assisting families residing in food deserts with limited access to nutritious food. 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.

37
grants awarded in FY23
$3.5M
dollars granted in FY23
30+
years of grant making

What we fund

Our philanthropic approach is intentional and deeply relational. We partner with nonprofits that are making a measurable difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. Guided by a commitment to holistic betterment, we focus our efforts on four primary areas: animal welfare, medical support, education, and food security.

Every organization we fund has a strong operational presence within the United States and aligns with our vision of creating a society where compassion, opportunity, and care are universally accessible. Together, we work to build a stronger, more equitable future for generations to come.

aNIMAL wELFARE

Rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals while addressing systemic challenges in veterinary care and animal welfare

  • Advanced Veterinary Services: Providing lifesaving care for severe illnesses and ensuring animals receive advanced veterinary treatment.
  • Addressing the Vet Shortage: Offering intensive spay/neuter and surgical training programs to meet the growing demand for skilled veterinarians.
  • Specialized Behavioral Training: Preparing animals for successful adoption through innovative training, including support for trauma recovery.

Together, these programs give animals a second chance at life while addressing systemic challenges in animal welfare.

Supported Organizations

  • Arizona Animal Welfare League
  • Dallas Pets Alive
  • Operation Kindness
  • Oregon Humane Society
  • PAWS Chicago
  • Straydog

Medical Support

Providing compassionate care for those in immediate need while fostering the next generation of medical advancements and healthcare professionals

  • Immediate Medical Relief: Delivering lifesaving care and support to individuals in urgent need, from hospice and palliative care to emergency and chronic disease treatment.
  • Investing in Future Healthcare Professionals: Supporting education and training programs that prepare the next generation of nurses, doctors, and medical staff with cutting-edge technology and innovative practices.
  • Advancing Medical Innovation: Partnering with leading institutions to drive research, improve treatment outcomes, and enhance access to specialized medical services for underserved communities.

These programs create a stronger healthcare system while addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable populations.

Supported Organizations

  • Eye Care 4 Kids
  • Hospice of the Valley
  • Luther College Nursing Program
  • Mayo Clinic
  • Médecins Sans Frontières USA
  • Phoenix House Texas
  • Sutter Roseville Medical Center Foundation

Education

Empowering individuals through quality education, professional development, and career advancement opportunities

  • Educational and Extracurricular Enrichment: Supporting children with access to academic support, mentorship, and opportunities for personal growth through creative, athletic, and leadership programs.
  • Workforce Development and Skills Training: Equipping individuals with the tools, training, and resources needed to achieve economic independence and long-term career success.
  • Job Placement and Career Advancement: Connecting individuals with meaningful employment opportunities and providing continued support to ensure sustained success in their chosen careers.

These efforts help break cycles of poverty and create pathways to lifelong success for individuals and families.

Supported Organizations

  • Boys & Girls Club of the Valley
  • Carole Robertson Center for Learning
  • Chicago Youth Programs
  • JobTrain
  • Jumpstart
  • Kitchens for Good
  • LIFT
  • p:ear
  • Portland OIC
  • The Bloc

Food Security

Ensuring nutritious food access, reducing waste, and creating pathways to financial stability in underserved communities

  • Access to Nutritious Meals: Providing fresh, nutritious food to individuals and families in need, ensuring no one goes hungry.
  • Food Recovery and Waste Reduction: Rescuing surplus food from farms, businesses, and restaurants and redirecting it to those who need it.
  • Food Security as a Pathway to Economic Mobility: Empowering individuals to escape debt and achieve financial stability by alleviating the emotional and financial burden of food insecurity.

These initiatives address immediate needs while building resilience and sustainability for the future.

Supported Organizations

  • 412 Food Rescue
  • Birch Community Services
  • Chef Ann Foundation
  • D.C. Central Kitchen
  • Dion’s Chicago Dream
  • Food Recovery Network
  • Harvest Against Hunger
  • HonorHealth Desert Mission
  • St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance
  • The Farmlink Project
  • The Visiting Nurse Association of Texas
  • Urban Gleaners
  • World Central Kitchen