Our Programs
Advancing Health, Education, and the Jewish Community
Introduction
The Bender Foundation supports organizations whose work aligns with our values and our commitment to the greater Washington, DC community. Our grantmaking is focused on organizations making a meaningful difference in the areas of health, education, and Jewish identity and community. We particularly prioritize organizations working at the intersection of these areas.
The Foundation accepts proposals by invitation only.
Funding Areas
Health
We support a range of physical and mental health-related initiatives, including youth sports and fitness, direct care services, mental health programs, mindfulness and resilience, substance abuse recovery, health education, nutrition, and efforts to expand access to care for underserved populations. We recognize the effect that health challenges have on individuals and families, and we are committed to standing alongside them as caring neighbors.
Education
Education is a powerful tool for change, and we invest in it accordingly. We fund programs focused on access to quality learning opportunities, early childhood education, after-school programming, literacy initiatives, college access and workforce development opportunities that open doors for individuals and families. We value innovation and evidence-based approaches.
Jewish Identity and Community
Caring for the needs of displaced members of the Jewish community was one of the Bender family’s earliest philanthropic acts. We honor this tradition and the family’s heritage by continuing to support Jewish organizations that promote the safety, resilience, faith and culture of the Jewish people.
Funding Priorities
We look for organizations that:
Align with the Foundation’s core values and giving philosophy
Serve community members facing barriers
Demonstrate clear, measurable impact and responsible stewardship of resources
Are committed to collaboration, community engagement, and partnership
Have strong leadership and the organizational capacity to deliver results
Geographic preference is given to organizations based in or primarily serving Washington, DC, and Montgomery County, Maryland.
Grant Process
The Bender Foundation, Inc. accepts proposals on an invitation-only basis.
If you have been invited to apply for a grant, use the following link to access our portal.
Learn More
For inquiries about funding or potential partnerships, please visit our Contact page.