Gerald D And Helen M Stephens Foundation
This organization is a private foundation focused on supporting a variety of causes, particularly in education, health, community service, and the arts. Its mission appears to center on funding initiatives that promote educational opportunities, medical research, and community support, as evidenced by its grants to universities, health institutions, and cultural events. The foundation serves a diverse range of recipients, including educational institutions, health charities, and community organizations. While it operates primarily in Illinois, its funding extends to various states, reflecting a broad commitment to impactful philanthropy.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
Mid- to large-sized charities or university/medical foundations seeking sizable, often restricted gifts or capital/research support and having a prior relationship or introduction to the foundation or its trustees.
Good Fit
- • A history of institutional partnerships with universities, hospitals, or regional nonprofits.
- • Needs that align with capital projects, endowed funds, scholarships, or named research support.
- • Connections or introductions to the foundation's officers, trustees, or professional advisors.
- • Capacity to manage large restricted grants (six-figure level).
- • Located in or serving states previously funded (e.g., WI, MD, OH, IL, GA) or able to demonstrate national relevance.
Geography
In the latest year grants were paid to recipients in five states, with the single largest state share going to Wisconsin (about 44%), indicating a multi-state footprint rather than a single-city focus.
Recipient Variety
The latest year shows six distinct recipients and across three years the foundation funded universities, medical centers, regional service agencies and an arts festival; however dollar distribution is concentrated in a few large grants, producing moderate overall variety.
New Applicants
Filings and the declared application approach indicate the foundation funds only preselected recipients; although four of six latest-year grantees were new entrants, the lack of a public application route means new entrants are likely admitted by invitation rather than open competition.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
