As you enter Freedom a la Cart Café + Bakery in downtown Columbus, the first thing you may notice is the aromatic scent of freshly brewed coffee. Or perhaps you’ll observe the enticing display of pastries or the menu of made-from scratch sandwiches and salads. But beneath this local dining experience is a meaningful, mission-focused cause: supporting survivors of sex trafficking.

Discover how The Columbus Foundation goes beyond traditional grantmaking, low-interest, flexible loans as a catalyst for community betterment. Explore examples such as the revitalized Columbus College of Art & Design's Welcome Center and Weinland Park's Grant Commons, showcasing how philanthropy can generate both social impact and financial returns.

Explore how Battelle continues to advance science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, impacting one million students annually, and its commitment to shaping the future by providing opportunities for all.

Stephanie and Joel Shaw's chance encounter at Atlanta Airport has led to a 22-year marriage and a strong commitment to Columbus. Learn how this dynamic duo, driven by gratitude and kindness, actively supports food security, racial equity, and community service through the Shaw Family Fund at The Columbus Foundation.

Former NFL coach Gelindo "Lindy" Infante's legacy lives on through the Lindy Infante Foundation, which gives all children access to youth sports. Learn how the Lindy Infante Foundation partners with nonprofits, promotes inclusivity in sports, and empowers kids to succeed.

Learn how the Beers and Board Games Club of Columbus gaming community, now hundreds strong, combines fun with philanthropy, raising over $100,000 for local nonprofits. Explore the story behind its Donor Advised Fund at The Columbus Foundation and its mission to continue gaming for good.

Learn how the Gifts of Kindness Fund, in partnership with central Ohio nonprofits, provides one-time grants for essential expenses like housing, medical bills, and utilities, fostering stability and resilience.

Supporting the community since 1908, Jewish Family Services is committed to helping individuals and families achieve economic self-sufficiency and emotional stability. Learn about their services, from workforce development to aiding Holocaust survivors, and why they've been named the 2023 Columbus Foundation Award honoree.

Celebrate the 2023 Harrison M. Sayre Award honorees, Renée and Dwight Smith, who exemplify generosity through their leadership and their encouragement and empowerment of those around them.

Learn about the life-saving work of the 2023 Acorn Award honoree Frontline Medical Ukraine Fund, established by U.S. Army Brigadier General Mark Arnold (Ret.), and its mission to provide vital medical supplies and training to Ukrainian soldiers and civilians amidst Russia's invasion.