For over 25 years, Grand Victoria Foundation (GVF) has supported work to make Illinois a great place to live and work, funding systems change in the areas of education, economic development, environment, and engagement. We have awarded over $184 million in grants throughout the state. In Elgin, Illinois, we have granted over $20 million to organizations providing crucial education, arts, and human services to the community. Our investments during this period have created conditions for positive change in the early childhood education and workforce development systems. It has also helped build strong eco-systems of community foundations and land conservation organizations across Illinois, resulting in these systems and institutions being better prepared to address new challenges.

We are proud of this work.

Despite progress over those two and a half decades, racial inequities persist, and the events of this young decade have shone a brighter light on the long-term effects of systemic racism and injustice in our society. In this context, Grand Victoria Foundation will chart a new course marked by a resolute commitment to establishing a Black-centered focus. This journey signifies a profound dedication to advancing racial justice in Illinois, going well beyond conventional diversity, equity, and inclusion considerations.

Our racial justice approach will focus on building power in Black communities. We chose this path for several reasons. Black people are the third largest racial group in Illinois, at 14% of the 12.7 million population. There are 81 population centers distributed throughout the state where Black people are 30% or more of the population. This shows an inextricable link between the health of Black communities and improved conditions for the state. Read our full plan here.