Zivin Family Foundation
The organization is a private foundation dedicated to supporting a variety of charitable causes. Its mission reflects a commitment to civil rights, health charities, food security, and youth development, with a particular focus on organizations that advocate for social justice and support marginalized communities. The foundation provides general support to a diverse range of nonprofits, including those that serve the Jewish community, health-related organizations, and initiatives addressing food insecurity. While it primarily operates in Illinois, its funding extends to organizations across multiple states.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A qualified 501(c)(3) seeking general support whose mission aligns with prior grants (civil rights/advocacy, health, Jewish community services, food insecurity, youth services) and comfortable submitting by mail/phone.
Good Fit
- • Is a registered 501(c)(3) eligible for general operating support.
- • Works in areas the foundation has funded before: civil rights/advocacy, health charities, Jewish community programs, food banks, or youth development.
- • Is comfortable with an informal submission (no formal form, no deadlines) and a mail/phone contact route.
- • Seeks grant sizes in the small-to-mid range (hundreds to tens of thousands).
- • Has some connection or credible introduction to the foundation's local/regional networks.
Geography
Giving in the latest year reached organizations across seven states (including IL, NY, DC, FL, CT, CA, MD); while Illinois is the largest single state at about 31% of dollars, the portfolio is multi-state rather than purely local.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows 29 distinct recipients funded, representing a broad set of independent organizations for a foundation of this size, although the top five recipients account for about half of giving.
New Applicants
Direct evidence of new grantees exists (10 new recipients in 2024, ~34%) and the foundation provides a named contact, phone number, and mailing address with no formal form or deadlines, so unfamiliar applicants appear plausibly able to enter the portfolio.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
