The Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation is a private family foundation established in 1970 by the late James E. Davis and his mother, the late Irene E. Davis. Irene and her husband, George, were leaders in the support and promotion of cultural, educational, human service and religious organizations throughout Hampden County.
Irene Davis spent some of her childhood in an orphanage and was sensitive to those in need. She believed that those with resources should give back to their community. In fact, Irene was so intent on helping others that she often handed out cash to the needy. Following the death of her husband, the foundation was established to formalize Irene's generosity. Eventually, the three children of James Davis were named trustees of the Foundation.
Today, the Davis Foundation has given grants to programs and organizations throughout Hampden County in keeping with the family's legacy. The Foundation and the Davis family have historically served as leaders in countless community efforts, and many local nonprofit organizations have come to rely upon the Foundation as a source of support for a wide variety of programs and projects. The hope is for this spirit of helping others and sharing wealth to continue for generations to come.
Guiding Principles and Values:
The guiding principles of the Davis Foundation reflect the family's values, which include
- respect;
- honesty and integrity;
- communication;
- tradition;
- philanthropy and community;
- and personal growth and education.
The Foundation’s guiding principles:
Because the Foundation realizes that it cannot meet its mission in isolation, it works in partnership with families, schools, community organizations and other key stakeholders to address community issues.
The Foundation is willing to take risks, is open to new approaches, and believes that through innovation and creativity we can respond to the ever-changing needs of Hampden County residents.
The Foundation believes in the importance of data to inform decision making and is committed to assessing our investments to ensure quality outcomes.
The Foundation will remain humble in its work; the needs of the citizens of Hampden County are at the center of all of its efforts.