OVERVIEW: The Gladys and Roland Harriman Foundation primarily funds grantmaking related education, youth and social service agencies, arts and cultural organizations, and health agencies and hospitals.
IP TAKE: The foundation keeps a low public profile, which restricts transparency about its grantmaking priorities and activities.
PROFILE: Established in 1966, the Gladys and Roland Harriman Foundation was launched by the late Roland and Gladys Harriman. Roland was a co-founder of the banking firm Harriman Brothers, which merged with Brown Brothers & Co. to form Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. The foundation is now steered by next generation family members. The foundation does not maintain a website, limiting information available on its grantmaking. According to tax filings, the Gladys and Roland Harriman Foundation primarily funds grantmaking related education, youth and social service agencies, arts and cultural organizations, and health agencies and hospitals.
The foundation’s health grantmaking supports American National Red Cross and American Red Cross in Greater New York. Roland and Gladys were both involved with the Red Cross. Gladys was active in the Red Cross beginning in 1920 and during World War II held several executive posts, including chairman of volunteer services for the New York branch.
Youth and social service grants have supported the Boys' Club of New York, while education grants have funded Columbia University.
Harriman Foundation grants range from $500 to $500,000. In a recent fiscal year, the foundation gave away around $7.4 million. Past grantees also include the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Nature Conservancy Eastern New York, WNET, Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship, Whitney Museum and the Montefiore Support Center.
The foundation keeps a low profile, but accepts a written summary in letter form with a brief description of the organization, and funding requirements. Applications should also include a copy of IRS Determination Letter. Requests much be received by October 1st.
PEOPLE:
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CONTACT:
Barbara O’Connell
140 Broadway, 16th Floor
New York, NY 10005
212-493-8185