65 Years of the Council on Foundations

This year marks the 65^th anniversary of the Council on Foundations’ work to support philanthropic organizations as they expand, enhance and sustain their ability to change the world. Chicago steel magnate Edward Ryerson helped to found the organization in 1949 as the National Committee of Foundations and Trusts for Community Welfare. Since then, it has grown to include 1,600 grantmaking organizations of all sizes. Collectively the membership has made grants that total more than $20 billion, but almost 40 percent hold assets that are less than $10 million.

The Council’s inclusion of private, community and corporate foundations, and other grantmaking organizations, like NPT, honors its mission to advance the common good. Their support of these charitable organizations—through education, research resources and policy insights—has helped organize, inspire and motivate the members towards common goals and best practices. NPT is proud to be a member of this distinguished organization and celebrates the Council’s achievements over the last 65 years.