Improving Outcomes for Over 24 Years
The Staten Island Foundation was created in December 1997 by the former Staten Island Savings Bank when the Bank converted to a public company. Originally known as SISB Community Foundation and then SI Bank & Trust Foundation, in 2006 it became The Staten Island Foundation with a clear guiding mission: to improve the quality of life in Staten Island, especially for the least advantaged. Although there was no legal requirement to establish a foundation, it was created with pride, excitement, and with a vision of what could be accomplished by the community sharing in the success of the Bank.
More Than $76 Million Granted
Since its inception, the Foundation has granted more than $76 million to help local institutions thrive. It is one of the Island’s major sources of philanthropy focused on outcomes for the people of Staten Island. We have supported a varied and wide-ranging array of projects. The Foundation has contributed to local projects of national prominence as well as to programs serving schools, faith-based groups, community centers, and programs serving those experiencing multiple obstacles to success. In its giving, the Foundation has reached the full range of faiths, cultures, age, and racial and ethnic groups in its focus areas of health, education, arts, and community services.
The Foundation has sought to fund outcomes-based projects and programs and to build the “capacity” of its non-profit grantees – providing funds for leadership development, technical assistance, or management consulting. As a respected leader, the Foundation also convenes stakeholders around issues facing the community, serves as a thought partner, and collaborates with other funders.
More recently, we have turned our attention to population-level change in Staten Island. The Foundation’s results orientation has expanded to include a collective impact approach to understanding issues, setting goals, and creating lasting impactful results for the Staten Island community. To read about The Staten Island Foundation highlights from 1997 through 2021, click here.