History
Click here to learn more about community foundations – one of the fastest-growing segments of philanthropy in the United States. |
- In January 1, 2010 the Hampton Roads Community Foundation formed when the Norfolk and Virginia Beach foundations merged becoming the largest grant and scholarship provider in Hampton Roads.
- Our roots extend to 1950 when Norfolk civic leaders donated $2,350 to create The Norfolk Foundation -- the first community foundation in Virginia. It was started to serve residents of Norfolk “and a 50-mile radius.”
- In 1987 civic leaders from Virginia Beach created the Virginia Beach Foundation to provide charitable resources primarily to benefit Virginia Beach residents.
- Since then hundreds of people from all walks of life have started named, permanent charitable funds with our predecessor foundations.
- Over the years our funds have provided more than $152 million in grants and scholarships to improve life in Hampton Roads.
- Grants from our two predecessor foundations have helped thousands of nonprofits and scholarship students from throughout Hampton Roads. Click here for a list of recent grants.
To learn highlights of our history view our milestones page.
Confirmed in compliance with national standards for U.S. community foundations.