Best Walter & Edith Foundation
The Walter Edith Best Foundation is a private foundation dedicated to supporting a variety of charitable causes, primarily focusing on healthcare, youth development, and social services. Its mission emphasizes providing substantial benefits to children, including care, treatment, education, and health support. The foundation funds organizations that address issues such as autism, domestic violence, and food security, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the well-being of vulnerable populations. While it primarily operates within Illinois, it also supports initiatives in other states. The foundation's grantmaking is characterized by a strong emphasis on program support for hospitals and community services.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A small-to-midsize Illinois nonprofit delivering direct services to children, families, or health-related human services with a clear program funding need and demonstrated local impact.
Good Fit
- • Organization is based in Illinois or has substantial Illinois programs.
- • Programs benefit children, families, healthcare, or related human services.
- • Request size aligns with mid-range grants (typical awards appear in the $5k–$20k neighborhood).
- • Ability to document local impact and program-level outcomes rather than heavy capital asks.
- • Willingness to apply by mailed proposal and maintain local relationships.
Geography
Giving is highly concentrated in Illinois (about 98% of dollars in the latest year) with only one or two out-of-state awards observed, so the footprint is essentially local/state-level.
Recipient Variety
Each year the foundation funds roughly 38–39 distinct organizations, indicating a broad and diverse recipient set rather than a tiny closed circle.
New Applicants
The foundation accepts proposals year-round in writing and the latest year shows eight new recipients alongside many returning grantees, which supports a realistic pathway for unfamiliar applicants to gain awards.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
