Irving Harris Foundation

The Irving Harris Foundation is a small, private family foundation established in 1946 and based in Chicago. Our funding focuses on the healthy development and care of very young children and their families, strengthening the arts and culture in our communities, and drawing on Jewish values to support positive social change. We are passionate about addressing the biggest questions underlying our grantees’ work. Remembering the inspiration of Irving Harris, we know that influencing social change is only possible when diverse perspectives are included and authentic partnerships are formed. Irving’s approach was distinctive, and the Foundation has built on his vision to develop a strategic constellation of partners — grantees, philanthropic colleagues, grassroots activists and policy leaders in both the private and public sectors — to achieve our collective goals.