The Columbus Foundation was established. More than seventy years ago, a group of passionate citizens, led by Harrison M. Sayre, envisioned a way to improve the community and the quality of life in central Ohio. With little more than this sound idea and faith, The Columbus Foundation was established in 1943.

The first unsolicited gift of $25 was given to the Foundation by Olga Anna Jones, Columbus’ first city councilwoman. Today, the Foundation serves as a trusted philanthropic advisor in all types of giving—individual, family, corporate, and international.

More than 2,500 individuals, families, and businesses have partnered with the Foundation, creating unique funds to support the causes they are most passionate about. Grants are made from these funds according to donors' wishes, supporting a wide range of initiatives, programs, and nonprofit organizations in our community.

The Columbus Foundation, once an acorn, has flourished into an oak tree of stature and strength for the central Ohio community. Today, we are one of the top 10 largest community foundations in the United States, managing $2.27 billion in assets and awarding more than $2.27 billion to a wide range of philanthropic interests.

Our generous donors honor the past, give in the present, and ensure for our community’s future through both current and planned giving. Future planned gifts known to the Foundation total $947 million (as of December 31, 2018). (Pictured Above: Mel Honeycutt, Planned Gift Donor)

The Columbus Foundation’s history book, A Spirited Journey, celebrates 70 years of inspiring leaders and generous donors. The book is devoted primarily to the growth of Columbus and the Foundation’s first 55 years. Highlights from the past 15 years are also featured. View History Book