Stephen A & Nina B Schafer Foundation
This organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting various charitable causes, primarily focusing on Jewish organizations, libraries, and community service initiatives. Its mission revolves around providing operational support to synagogues and educational institutions, as well as enhancing community resources such as libraries. The foundation serves a diverse range of recipients, including religious and educational organizations, and demonstrates a commitment to fostering community engagement. While its funding is primarily concentrated in Pennsylvania, it also supports organizations in other regions, reflecting a broader commitment to community service and cultural enrichment.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Small or local nonprofit organizations, especially Pennsylvania-based groups (notably synagogues, libraries, and education-related nonprofits), seeking modest operating support and with an existing relationship or local introduction.
Good Fit
- • Organization operates or has programs in Pennsylvania or a documented tie to PA communities.
- • Mission aligns with faith-based (Jewish), library, or education operating support.
- • Request is for modest, general operating support (typical awards under $5K).
- • Organization can secure a referral or introduction from a past grantee or local contact connected to the foundation.
- • Has a record of local community engagement or partnership with known recipients.
Geography
Grants span multiple states and territories (eight distinct states/territories observed), though a majority of dollars are concentrated in Pennsylvania.
Recipient Variety
Each year funds a moderate number of distinct independent recipients (about 12–14), including synagogues, libraries, and educational groups, indicating a moderately diverse recipient set for the foundation's size.
New Applicants
The foundation explicitly notes that it funds only preselected applicants; while some new grantees appear across years, the documented preselection policy and lack of a public application route make unsolicited new applications unlikely to be successful.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
