The Association of Fundraising Professionals Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter awarded Robert H. Spitz Foundation with the Outstanding Foundation Award. The foundation was nominated by Scranton Area Community Foundation and was honored at November 2022's Annual Philanthropy Day Luncheon.
The Robert H. Spitz Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports initiatives and programs serving the residents of Northeastern Pennsylvania. The foundation, administered by Scranton Area Community Foundation, was established in 2016 from the estate of Robert H. Spitz, a Scranton native whose philanthropic interests are honored through the foundation.
Since its inception, Robert H. Spitz Foundation has awarded more than $4.4 million to support important causes in Lackawanna County and the surrounding areas. Funding priorities focus on programs that aim to break the cycle of poverty, remove economic barriers, and encourage independence in adults and children. This is done through access to safe, affordable housing, transportation, and education. Priority areas also include veterans affairs and veteran-oriented programs, animal welfare, and support for Jewish culture, heritage and community. The foundation recently expanded its areas of funding to include environmental issues, awarding more than $100,000 to environmental causes over the past two years.
Once a year, the foundation invites nonprofit organizations to apply for funding that supports initiatives in line with the interests of the foundation. During the 2022 grant cycle, the foundation awarded a total of $757,500 to 63 nonprofit organizations. The supported causes ranged from behavioral health issues in K–12 students to a start-up veterinary clinic for animals at local rescues and sanctuaries.
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