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John R. Oishei Foundation

Annual Giving
$13.0M

John R. Oishei Foundation

Quick Stats

  • Annual Giving: $13 million (2024)
  • Success Rate: Not publicly available
  • Decision Time: Not publicly available
  • Grant Range: Not publicly specified
  • Geographic Focus: Buffalo-Niagara region, with emphasis on Buffalo's East Side

Contact Details

Overview

The John R. Oishei Foundation, established in 1942, is a major philanthropic force in Western New York with total assets of approximately $330 million as of 2024. The foundation distributes approximately $13 million annually in charitable grants. Under the leadership of President Christina P. Orsi, the foundation has embraced a transformative approach focused on systems change and racial equity. The foundation's mission is to "work with communities to change systems and build financial prosperity for a racially just, vibrant Buffalo-Niagara region," with a vision of creating "a thriving, prosperous community for all, where diversity is our strength."

Funding Priorities

Grant Programs

The foundation practices trust-based philanthropy, though specific program details and grant amounts are not publicly detailed on their website.

Priority Areas

  • Racial equity and justice initiatives
  • Buffalo's East Side community development
  • Systems change for community prosperity
  • Building financial prosperity for underserved communities
  • Supporting Black communities and addressing racial inequities

What They Don't Fund

Specific exclusions not publicly available

Governance and Leadership

President: Christina P. Orsi (compensation: $303,255 in 2024) Board Chair: Glenn Jackson

The foundation employs a team including Allison Geddes, Annie Todd, and other staff members dedicated to community engagement and trust-based philanthropy approaches.

Application Process & Timeline

How to Apply

The foundation does not provide public information about a formal application process on their website. Based on available information, the foundation appears to operate through relationship-building and strategic partnerships rather than an open application process.

Getting on Their Radar

Given the foundation's emphasis on "building relationships" and "removing barriers" as stated on their website, organizations seeking funding should focus on:

  • Alignment with racial equity and systems change goals
  • Direct impact on Buffalo's East Side communities
  • Demonstrated commitment to addressing racial inequities

Decision Timeline

Not publicly available

Success Rates

Not publicly available

Reapplication Policy

Not publicly available

Application Success Factors

Based on the foundation's stated priorities and approach:

  • Strong alignment with racial equity and justice initiatives
  • Focus on Buffalo's East Side and historically underserved communities
  • Systems-change approach rather than traditional charity model
  • Trust-based philanthropy alignment - organizations that can demonstrate trustworthiness and community connection
  • Clear connection to building financial prosperity for marginalized communities

Key Takeaways for Grant Writers

  • The foundation has shifted to a trust-based philanthropy model focused on racial equity
  • Geographic focus is primarily Buffalo-Niagara region with special emphasis on Buffalo's East Side
  • Annual giving of approximately $13 million indicates significant grant-making capacity
  • Lack of public application information suggests relationship-building is crucial
  • Organizations should demonstrate clear commitment to systems change and racial justice
  • The foundation values removing barriers and building community prosperity over traditional charitable approaches

References

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