MISSION AND VALUES

The Thomas C. Ackerman Foundation is driven by the idea that every child holds promise and every child should have opportunity for success. We believe that investment in youth is fundamental to future cultural and economic prosperity. Innovative K-12 STEAM education programs are the principal springboard for youth to reach their full potential, particularly in under-served communities.

We seek to be a catalyst for growth and sustainability for organizations with the vision and ability to provide meaningful and robust STEAM educational opportunities for youth where these resources are most needed. We are proud to have the opportunity to serve our San Diego communities through ongoing grant making, program partnerships, and collaboration with other philanthropic organizations for the greater good.

Science and engineering related jobs continue to grow. Yet STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education opportunities do not match the demand in the job market. Additionally, there is clear evidence that art, music and design programs are often among the first to be cut from K-6 curriculums and beyond. Yet, research clearly indicates that critical thinking, problem solving, creativity, interest in education, and test scores are measurably enhanced when STEM is combined with Arts, Music and Design education, thereby making STEAM. When these areas of study are mutually reinforced, learning is deepened, and there is a greater chance of educational and economic success for students. We therefore are particularly interested in supporting programs that not only prepare underserved students for educational success during the K-12 grades but lead those same students to college admission and graduation.

We are passionate about giving and making a difference. Our grantmaking efforts are aimed at allocating our resources where they will make the most impact and do the most good. Oftentimes that means investing in smaller, unique programs that are tailored for a specific demographic and need our support for growth and expansion. We do not provide continuous support for any organization or project to the extent that the organization or project becomes dependent on the Foundation for its existence. However, we may choose in some cases to make multi-year commitments where we believe the need is compelling.

The Foundation receives a very high number of applications for grants annually. In evaluating these applications, we focus on several important areas: We are interested in programs with clear connections between mission, vision, and how the objectives of the organization are met. Is there a targeted demographic and is it being served according to the mission and vision? Are there measurable results and outcomes? What are the goals of the organization over the next three to five years? Does the organization seek to collaborate with other, similar goal-minded groups? What are the strategic plans of the organization in realizing those objectives? Is the organization sustainable? The Foundation Board may also seek a site visit with organizations for which it is considering a grant.