How Much U.S. Giving Pledge Members Donate to Their Foundations
June 4, 2019 | Read Time: 31 minutes
How Giving Pledge members fulfill their promise to give away at least half of their wealth is often a very private matter. Aside from a few announced big gifts, their philanthropy can be a mystery.
Donations to private foundations, however, are recorded in grant-maker tax filings, offering at least a glimpse of the charitable giving of pledge members, and sometimes more. The Chronicle has compiled snapshots of giving by 74 of the 155 U.S. Giving Pledge members to their affiliated private foundations, often entities founded with their families. The data covers 2010 through 2017 and includes giving and grant-making data in those years even for those who signed after the pledge’s 2010 start because many were already conducting significant philanthropy before joining.
For other U.S. pledge members, the Chronicle was either unable to identify foundations affiliated with them or could not determine the donors making contributions.
The data is not a complete accounting of any individual’s philanthropy. Many pledge signatories give in a variety of ways, including through donor-advised funds, limited-liability corporations, family offices, and other entities for which records are not typically available publicly. Also, some philanthropists give directly to charities that aren’t foundations, and those gifts are not necessarily publicly available.
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Pledge memberYear Signed | Source of Wealth
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Estimated Net Worth
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Average Annual Contributions
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Average Annual Foundation Grants
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Latest Foundation Assets
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| Bill Ackman2012 | Finance | $1.1 billion | $41,837,991 | $29,873,608 | $216.6 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesHis foundation giving remained steady despite volatile returns and controversy in his hedge fund. Tax filings list his wife, Karen Herskovitz, as a co-contributor on some donations to the grant maker, but they divorced, and she’s now a Giving Pledge member on her own. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsPershing Square Foundation Average yearly contributions: $47,814,847 Average yearly grants: $29,873,608 Latest Assets: $216,638,298 (2017) Contributions by year
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| John and Laura Arnold2010 | Finance | $3.3 billion | $153,285,156 | $78,041,760 | $1.7 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe couple — who opened their foundation in 2008 and put in $450 million in two years — have not slowed down. They also give significant amounts to political causes and recently announced the creation of a limited-liability corporation to increase that work. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 8 (view profile) FoundationsLaura and John Arnold Foundation Average yearly contributions: $153,285,156 Average yearly grants: $78,041,760 Latest Assets: $1,694,280,084 (2016) Contributions by year
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| Aneel and Allison Bhusri2018 | Technology, Investments | $2.4 billion | $4,941,186 | $1,174,425 | $34.5 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThese financials are from the foundation of the company that Aneel Bhusri co-founded, Workday, which makes business-management technology tools. The foundation launched in 2013; contributions were made by the company. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsWorkday Foundation Average yearly contributions: $4,941,186 Average yearly grants: $1,174,425 Latest Assets: $34,454,762 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Sara Blakely2013 | Retail | $1.1 billion | $1,753,117 | $683,620 | $24.3 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesData is from the foundation for Blakely’s apparel company, Spanx. She personally contributed less than $150,000 from 2011 (the first year data is available) through 2017. When she signed the pledge, she said she was dedicated to growing her business, suggesting significant philanthropy wouldn’t come soon. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation Inc. Average yearly contributions: $1,753,117 Average yearly grants: $683,620 Latest Assets: $24,307,090 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Arthur Blank2012 | Retail | $4.7 billion | $17,177,541 | $13,912,126 | $67.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesOne of the founders of Home Depot and the owner of the Atlanta Falcons, Blank established his foundation in 1995 and has directed more than $360 million toward early-childhood development, education, community work, and other issues, according to the grant maker. Most recently, the foundation committed tens of millions to improve poverty-stricken areas near where he built the new $1.5 billion Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 2 (view profile) FoundationsArthur M. Blank Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $17,177,541 Average yearly grants: $13,912,126 Latest Assets: $67,793,357 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Michael Bloomberg2010 | Finance, Media and Entertainment | $56 billion | $531,737,538 | $221,395,883 | $8.9 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesBloomberg’s lifetime giving stood at $8 billion after he made a $1.8 billion pledge to Johns Hopkins in 2018, according to representatives of the media mogul and former New York mayor. Including that gift, he’s now given $3.3 billion to his alma mater. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 14 (view profile) FoundationsBloomberg Philanthropies Average yearly contributions: $531,737,538 Average yearly grants: $221,395,883 Latest Assets: $8,931,075,194 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Eli and Edythe Broad2010 | Real Estate, Finance | $6.7 billion | $56,910,144 | $164,588,296 | $3.0 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe Broads control and give to two grant makers: the Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation and the Broad Art Foundation, both of which have operated for decades. They have made a string of nine-figure gifts dating to at least 2005, including several totaling more than $700 million to the Broad Institute, a biomedical research center they launched in 2003. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 14 (view profile) FoundationsBroad Art Foundation Average yearly contributions: $17,782,153 Average yearly grants: $15,377,517 Latest Assets: $1,171,142,758 (2017) Eli & Edythe Broad Foundation Average yearly contributions: $39,127,991 Average yearly grants: $149,210,779 Latest Assets: $1,844,113,826 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Warren Buffett2010 | Investments | $83 billion | $2,478,531,942 | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesBuffett pledged in 2006 to give away the bulk of his fortune to the Gates Foundation and to the philanthropies of his children — Howard, Peter, and Susan — as well as a family foundation named for his late wife, Susan Thompson Buffett. This 2010-17 giving figure includes donations to their foundations as well as the $15 billion he gave to a trust that funds the Gates Foundation. Berkshire Hathaway last year said Buffett has donated $31 billion toward his pledge. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 2 (view profile) FoundationsBill and Melinda Gates Foundation Trust Average yearly contributions: $1,937,876,685 Average yearly grants: N/A Latest Assets: N/A Howard G. Buffett Foundation Average yearly contributions: $115,588,815 Average yearly grants: $106,490,970 Latest Assets: $416,030,184 (2017) NoVo Foundation Average yearly contributions: $115,588,815 Average yearly grants: $67,610,793 Latest Assets: $651,666,779 (2016) Sherwood Foundation Average yearly contributions: $115,588,821 Average yearly grants: $108,544,936 Latest Assets: $376,758,547 (2017) The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation Average yearly contributions: $193,889,807 Average yearly grants: $474,666,781 Latest Assets: $2,668,799,021 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Steve and Jean Case2010 | Technology | $1.3 billion | $3,075,000 | $1,054,726 | $287,302 | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe AOL co-founder and his wife have a puzzling philanthropic profile. They record few big public gifts, and their foundation awarded only $8.4 million in grants in 2010-17. Compensation for top executives in 2017 topped grant awards, which totaled $435,200. The Cases told the Chronicle they do charitable work through many different vehicles and have given away $300 million to date. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsCase Foundation Average yearly contributions: $3,075,000 Average yearly grants: $1,057,455 Latest Assets: $287,302 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Signe Ostby & Scott Cook2016 | Technology | $3.5 billion | $9,744,825 | $8,725,055 | $96.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe Intuit co-founder and his wife are part of the Audacious Project philanthropic collaboration — along with Bill and Melinda Gates and a handful of other Giving Pledge members — to fund “bold” ideas. In 2015-17, they gave to such organizations as the University of California at San Francisco ($20.5 million), One Acre Fund for African poverty relief ($6.5 million), and the Y ($500,000). Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsValhalla Charitable Foundation Average yearly contributions: $9,744,825 Average yearly grants: $8,725,055 Latest Assets: $96,839,261 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Lee and Toby Cooperman2010 | Finance | $3 billion | $17,510,417 | $10,483,851 | $325.5 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe N.Y. investor and hedge-fund manager and his wife give to many organizations in the region. Recent pledges include $20 million to the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and $25 million to the Saint Barnabas Medical Center in New Jersey. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsLeon and Toby Cooperman Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $17,510,417 Average yearly grants: $10,483,851 Latest Assets: $325,489,299 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Joe and Kelly Craft2012 | Energy | < $1 billion | $7,490,995 | $1,763,684 | $66.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesGrants from the foundation of this coal-mining and energy executive go to only a handful of organizations each year. From 2013 through 2017, more than half of the $12 million awarded went to either the U. of Kentucky (his alma mater; $2.9 million) or Alice Lloyd College ($4 million), a low-tuition Kentucky liberal-arts institution for Appalachian residents. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsJoseph W. Craft III Foundation Average yearly contributions: $7,490,995 Average yearly grants: $1,763,684 Latest Assets: $66,790,952 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Ray and Barbara Dalio2011 | Finance | $18 billion | $154,397,643 | $63,255,285 | $778.4 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe hedge-fund titan and his wife donated $1.2 billion to their foundation in 2010-17 — more than 10 times what they gave in the seven years previously. They are one of nine Giving Pledge members to top the billion-dollar mark in foundation giving. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 3 FoundationsDalio Foundation Inc. Average yearly contributions: $154,397,643 Average yearly grants: $63,255,285 Latest Assets: $778,414,397 (2017) Contributions by year
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| John Paul DeJoria2011 | Retail | $2.5 billion | $3,084,927 | $2,156,025 | $7.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe hair-care magnate has described his Peace, Love, and Happiness Foundation as “a hub” of his philanthropy, though its grant making is relatively meagre when compared with that of other Giving Pledge billionaires. Since it launched in 2011, the foundation has given away $15 million. DeJoria told the Chronicle that he donated $50 million to the grant maker in 2018. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsJP’s Peace Love and Happiness Foundation Average yearly contributions: $3,084,927 Average yearly grants: $2,156,025 Latest Assets: $7,750,434 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Diane von Furstenberg & Barry Diller 2010 | Media and Entertainment, Fashion | $3.7 billion | $8,583,597 | $8,728,348 | $59.0 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe founder and chairman of internet and media giant IAC and his fashion-designer wife have put up millions for three recent additions to New York’s cultural-recreational scene: the High Line; the Shed, which opened this spring; and Pier 55, a 2.4-acre park with three performing-arts venues, to open in 2021. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe Diller-von Furstenberg Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $8,583,597 Average yearly grants: $8,728,348 Latest Assets: $59,001,944 (2017) Contributions by year
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| John and Ann Doerr2010 | Technology, Investments | $6.9 billion | $6,335,969 | $7,467,311 | $323.4 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe tech venture capitalist and his wife has been involved in philanthropy for years, yet assets in their foundation nearly quadrupled in 2010-17, with grant awards reaching $19 million — the highest level in almost a decade. Big ’17 gifts went to the Alliance for Climate Protection ($5.1 million); the One Campaign and the NewSchools Venture Fund ($3 million each); and the Khan Academy ($2.5 million). Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe Benificus Foundation Average yearly contributions: $6,335,969 Average yearly grants: $7,467,311 Latest Assets: $323,362,332 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Dagmar Dolby2017 | Family Wealth, Technology | $4.1 billion | $10,683,350 | $6,798,690 | $141.2 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThese financials are from the family foundation of audio pioneer Ray Dolby, who died in 2013, and his widow, Dagmar. In 2016, she opened the Dagmar Dolby Fund, a charity at the Marin Community Foundation that was initially funded with $69 million from an undisclosed source. The family foundation has received no contributions since 2014. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsRay and Dagmar Dolby Family Fund Average yearly contributions: $10,683,350 Average yearly grants: $6,798,690 Latest Assets: $141,181,895 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Glenn and Eva Dubin2012 | Finance | $2 billion | $2,667,633 | $2,287,783 | $61.9 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe Dubins typically make a handful of gifts from their foundation each year; big recipients include the Robin Hood Foundation, which he helped launch, and Stony Brook U., his alma mater. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsG. & E. Dubin Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $2,667,633 Average yearly grants: $2,287,783 Latest Assets: $61,921,351 (2016) Contributions by year
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| Larry Ellison2010 | Technology | $63 billion | $36,372,659 | $39,541,251 | $10.7 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesEllison has landed on the Chronicle’s annual list of the 50 top donors 15 times, beginning in 2000, with total giving in those years of slightly more than $1 billion. The co-founder of Oracle has pledged to give away 95 percent of his wealth. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 15 (view profile) FoundationsLawrence Ellison Foundation Average yearly contributions: $36,372,659 Average yearly grants: $39,541,251 Latest Assets: $10,697,309 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Charlie and Candy Ergen2018 | Telecommunications | $9.6 billion | $24,991,384 | $1,354,984 | $184.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThese newcomers to the pledge are among the group’s wealthiest. The couple started their foundation in 2005 but put in only a few million before 2015, when they contributed nearly $200 million. Grant making, which is growing quickly, hit nearly $9 million in 2017. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe Telluray Foundation Average yearly contributions: $24,991,384 Average yearly grants: $1,354,984 Latest Assets: $184,784,806 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Phillip and Patricia Frost2011 | Pharmaceuticals | $2 billion | $5,516,596 | $3,106,574 | $28.1 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesIn 2016, the couple pledged $100 million to the U. of Miami basic and applied sciences and engineering programs. A 2011 gift of $35 million earned them naming rights for the Frost Museum of Science in Miami but also put them at the center of controversy when the project fell short of fundraising goals before opening in 2017. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 3 (view profile) FoundationsPhillip and Patricia Frost Philanthropic Foundation Average yearly contributions: $5,516,596 Average yearly grants: $3,106,574 Latest Assets: $28,126,475 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Mario and Regina Gabelli2017 | Finance, Investments | $1.7 billion | $3,971,842 | $2,858,635 | $89.4 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesTheir foundation’s assets and grant making doubled in 2010-17. Bronx born to Italian immigrants, Gabelli has made his biggest public gifts to his alma maters: Fordham ($25 million in 2010) and Columbia Business School ($15 million in 2013). In 2017, at least half of his foundation’s grants went to schools or colleges. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsGabelli Foundation, Inc. Average yearly contributions: $3,971,842 Average yearly grants: $2,858,635 Latest Assets: $89,413,080 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Bill and Melinda Gates2010 | Technology | $97 billion | $4,361,326,717 | $4,087,723,409 | $51.8 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesTheir personal giving to the foundation in 2010-17 amounts to $7.1 billion, according to estimates the Gateses report to the Chronicle annually. Despite the highest annual grant making among Giving Pledge members, their foundation’s assets still stand at almost fivefold more than the nearly $9 billion in Michael Bloomberg’s foundation, which is the second largest among pledge members. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 10 (view profile) FoundationsBill and Melinda Gates Foundation Average yearly contributions: $4,361,326,717 Average yearly grants: $4,087,723,409 Latest Assets: $51,830,224,097 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Diane Troderman & Harold Grinspoon2014 | Real Estate | < $1 billion | $1,354,258 | $793,354 | $11.7 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesGrinspoon’s foundation is focused largely on Jewish life and community. It also runs a number of programs for the couple’s Western Massachusetts region, including awards programs that back dozens of local teachers, farmers, and entrepreneurs. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsHarold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation Average yearly contributions: $1,354,258 Average yearly grants: $793,354 Latest Assets: $11,692,858 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Harold Hamm2011 | Energy | $13 billion | $1,422,534 | $1,572,878 | $26.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesHamm joined the pledge with his wife, Sue Ann Arnall, but they divorced and she now has signed on her own. The figures here represent his giving to their joint foundation and to his own foundation, which he established in 2012. He recently committed $34 million to the diabetes center at the U. of Oklahoma, the latest in a string of gifts aimed at finding a cure for the disease, from which he suffers. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsHarold G. and Sue Ann Hamm Foundation Average yearly contributions: $1,075,000 Average yearly grants: $1,960,225 Latest Assets: $126 (2013) Harold Hamm Foundation Average yearly contributions: $1,416,054 Average yearly grants: $948,426 Latest Assets: $26,833,118 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Nick and Leslie Hanauer2017 | Technology, Investments | < $1 billion | $2,072,621 | $1,977,051 | $16.5 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesIn the past five years, the Seattle-area venture capitalist and his wife gave away about $5 million through their foundation to the Seattle Academy, a private school where they have children enrolled. That’s more than 40 percent of their grant making during that time. The Hanauers told the Chronicle they channel only a small portion of their giving through their foundation and estimate that they have donated $80 million over the past decade, often toward policy and political causes such as gun control and raising the minimum wage. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe Nick and Leslie Hanauer Foundation Average yearly contributions: $2,072,621 Average yearly grants: $1,977,051 Latest Assets: $16,455,124 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Lyda Hill2010 | Family Wealth, Investments | < $1 billion | $59,387 | $669,307 | $11.2 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesWhile her foundation is relatively quiet, the entrepreneur and granddaughter of oil executive H.L. Hunt appears to be moving cash in other ways. Big gifts have included $50 million to the U. of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center and $25 million to the U. of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsLyda Hill Foundation Average yearly contributions: $59,387 Average yearly grants: $669,307 Latest Assets: $11,242,632 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Barron Hilton2010 | Hotels and Casinos | < $1 billion | $35,098,537 | $95,454,112 | $2.7 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe hotel magnate put $246 million in the Conrad Hilton Foundation, his father’s grant maker, in 2010-16; the foundation doled out $670 million in grants. Hilton’s wealth, which Forbes estimated at $2.5 billion when he signed the pledge, has declined by more than half. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsConrad N. Hilton Foundation Average yearly contributions: $35,098,537 Average yearly grants: $95,454,112 Latest Assets: $2,692,285,541 (2016) Contributions by year
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| Carl Icahn2010 | Investments | $17 billion | $4,500 | $736,438 | $26.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe Wall Street icon doesn’t appear to use this foundation for much of his philanthropy. He has made only one sizable contribution to it since 1997 — a $2.1 million gift in 2007. In 2012, he pledged $200 million to the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, which was renamed in his honor, and he supports a string of New York charter schools through the Foundation for a Greater Opportunity. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 FoundationsThe Carl C. Icahn Foundation Average yearly contributions: $4,500 Average yearly grants: $736,438 Latest Assets: $26,762,739 (2017) Contributions by year
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| John “Jay” Jordan2015 | Finance | < $1 billion | $840,093 | $739,454 | $18,963 | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe foundation of this Chicago business executive and investor supports programs that encourage participation in sports by disadvantaged children. He’s most known for his giving to Notre Dame, his alma mater, to which he’s donated at least $150 million. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 2 (view profile) FoundationsThe Jordan Family Sports Foundation Average yearly contributions: $840,093 Average yearly grants: $739,454 Latest Assets: $18,963 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Brad and Kim Keywell2015 | Technology | < $1 billion | $2,161,825 | $568,240 | $14.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe couple opened their foundation in 2010 with a $100,000 gift. Their total grant making to date: $4.5 million. A tech entrepreneur who co-founded Groupon, Brad Keywell launched Chicago Ideas in 2011, a nonprofit that aims to spread innovation and entrepreneurship. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe Keywell Foundation Average yearly contributions: $2,161,825 Average yearly grants: $568,240 Latest Assets: $14,812,786 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Sidney Kimmel2010 | Retail | $1.3 billion | $9,832,752 | $7,856,928 | $35.6 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesKimmel pledged $110 million to the medical college at Philadelphia’s Thomas Jefferson U. in 2014. Several cancer centers nationwide bear his name thanks to multimillion-dollar gifts. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 4 (view profile) FoundationsSidney Kimmel Foundation Average yearly contributions: $9,832,752 Average yearly grants: $7,503,346 Latest Assets: $35,563,834 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Rich and Nancy Kinder2011 | Energy | $6.6 billion | $35,562,981 | $28,553,440 | $176.3 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesTheir foundation assets have nearly tripled since 2010, and annual grant making typically tops $30 million, up from $8 million when the pledge began. They back many groups in their hometown of Houston: The Museum of Fine Arts and the Memorial Park Conservancy received gifts of $75 million and $70 million, respectively. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 2 (view profile) FoundationsKinder Foundation Average yearly contributions: $35,562,981 Average yearly grants: $23,507,968 Latest Assets: $176,333,625 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Seth and Beth Klarman2013 | Finance | $1.5 billion | $88,384,375 | $36,697,089 | $805.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe Boston hedge-fund founder and his wife are relatively unknown major philanthropists; they have put $707 million into their foundation since 2010. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsKlarman Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $88,384,375 Average yearly grants: $36,697,089 Latest Assets: $805,833,899 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Robert and Arlene Kogod2016 | Real Estate | < $1 billion | $1,649,758 | $6,984,401 | $886,441 | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesIn recent years, the Kogods have steadily increased their grant making, drawing down their foundation’s asset value, which stood at $33 million in 2010. In 2017, they made more than $10 million in grants, the most since the foundation opened in 1998. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsThe Robert P. and Arlene R. Kogod Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $1,649,758 Average yearly grants: $6,984,401 Latest Assets: $886,441 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Eric and Liz Lefkofsky2013 | Technology | $2.5 billion | $12,377,237 | $4,895,409 | $61.3 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe Groupon co-founder and his wife are relative newcomers to grant making; their family foundation launched in 2006 and had just $1 million in assets in 2010. It focuses on education, human rights, civic causes, and medical discoveries. Liz’s mother founded the American Brain Tumor Association, and Eric is now CEO of a startup specializing in data-driven tech medicine. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe Lefkofsky Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $12,377,237 Average yearly grants: $4,895,409 Latest Assets: $61,314,584 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Mellody Hobson & George Lucas2010 | Media and Entertainment | $5.4 billion | $141,402,084 | $46,559,162 | $1.1 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesGifts in 2010-12 to their family foundation came from LucasFilm. In 2012, the year the filmmaker sold the company to Disney for $4 billion, he put more than $1 billion into the foundation. Lucas also operates the George Lucas Educational Foundation, which has received more than $50 million in contributions since 2010, most of it from an unnamed Schwab donor-advised account. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsGeorge Lucas Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $141,402,084 Average yearly grants: $46,559,162 Latest Assets: $1,119,300,147 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Duncan and Nancy MacMillan2010 | Finance, Media and Entertainment | $1.1 billion | $19,359,599 | $4,765,240 | $211.5 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesAssets for their family foundation, which opened in 2002, are at an all-time high — more than four times what they were in 2010. Grant making slipped in 2016 and 2017 to about $1 million each year. Duncan, along with fellow pledge members Michael Bloomberg, Thomas Secunda, and Charles Zegar, is a co-founder of Bloomberg’s financial-information company. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe MacMillan Family Foundation, Inc. Average yearly contributions: $19,359,599 Average yearly grants: $4,765,240 Latest Assets: $211,484,216 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Joe and Rika Mansueto2010 | Finance, Media and Entertainment | $3.3 billion | $3,405,572 | $944,552 | $25.9 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe founder of the Morningstar financial-information services company and his wife opened their foundation in 2010. Their grant making focuses almost exclusively on the Chicago area, where they live, and they have committed at least $61 million to the U. of Chicago, Joe’s alma mater, since 2008. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsMansueto Foundation Average yearly contributions: $3,405,572 Average yearly grants: $944,552 Latest Assets: $25,857,010 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Richard and Nancy Marriott2013 | Hotels and Casinos | < $1 billion | $1,819,401 | $1,471,598 | $68.0 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesGrant making from the foundation of the hotel scion and his wife has held steady at about $1 million or $2 million a year since 2010, even as assets soared from $31 million to $68 million. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsRichard E. & Nancy P. Marriott Foundation, Inc. Average yearly contributions: $1,819,401 Average yearly grants: $1,471,598 Latest Assets: $67,970,818 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Craig and Susan McCaw2013 | Telecommunications | $1.8 billion | $3,217,320 | $5,476,182 | $46.6 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesCraig McCaw made his fortune in 1994 when he and his brothers sold a family cable company to AT&T for more than $12 billion. He and his wife have made about $95 million in grants through their foundation since 2000. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsThe Craig and Susan McCaw Foundation Average yearly contributions: $3,217,320 Average yearly grants: $5,476,182 Latest Assets: $46,554,563 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Red and Charline McCombs2012 | Media and Entertainment | $1.5 billion | $0 | $4,549,652 | $41.3 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe Texas business titan, who’s in his 90s, and his wife haven’t put money into their foundation since 2007. Assets have fallen from as high as $154 million in 2006. In 2017, the couple made more than 150 grants, ranging from $150 to $400,000 and mostly earmarked for Texas organizations. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsMcCombs Foundation Inc. Average yearly contributions: N/A Average yearly grants: $4,549,652 Latest Assets: $41,341,709 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Michael and Lori Milken2010 | Finance | $3.6 billion | $8,098,245 | $13,502,420 | $116.5 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThese figures are drawn from tax filings for the foundation that the former junk-bond king opened with his brother, Lowell, in 1982. In 2017, more than $24 million of its $32 million in grants went to the Milken Institute, a think tank founded by Michael Milken. The grant maker also backs his Prostate Cancer Foundation. Michael and Lori Milken opened their own foundation in 2018; data is not yet available. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsMilken Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $8,098,245 Average yearly grants: $13,502,420 Latest Assets: $116,508,612 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Thomas Monaghan2010 | Food And Beverage | < $1 billion | $888,669 | $389,514 | $5.3 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesCreated in the mid-1980s, the Ave Maria Foundation of the Domino’s king is a shell of its former self. Its assets have drifted steadily downward since at least 1998, when they stood at $250 million and spun off $18 million in grants, many of them supporting Catholic churches, schools, and other organizations. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 2 (view profile) FoundationsAve Maria Foundation Average yearly contributions: $888,669 Average yearly grants: $389,514 Latest Assets: $5,308,622 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Gordon and Betty Moore2012 | Technology | $9.7 billion | $0 | $252,236,724 | $6.9 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThey operate two foundations: a family foundation, with assets of about $55 million, and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, which is among the largest in the country. In the early 2000s, the Intel co-founder and his wife endowed their foundation with $5 billion in stock. They haven’t added to it since at least 2005. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 4 (view profile) FoundationsGordon and Betty Moore Foundation Average yearly contributions: N/A Average yearly grants: $250,362,253 Latest Assets: $6,860,248,366 (2017) Moore Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: N/A Average yearly grants: $1,874,472 Latest Assets: $55,277,777 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Harriet Heyman & Michael Moritz2012 | Finance | $3.3 billion | $78,289,990 | $25,843,015 | $1.4 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesTheir nearly 20-year-old philanthropy tripled in size in 2010-17, as the couple put in more than $600 million. It’s now one of 11 among Giving Pledge members with assets of more than $1 billion. The tech venture capitalist has donated more than $160 million to Oxford, his alma mater; the foundation awards dozens of grants annually ranging from a few hundred dollars to millions. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 3 (view profile) FoundationsCrankstart Foundation Average yearly contributions: $78,289,990 Average yearly grants: $25,843,015 Latest Assets: $1,354,894,552 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Cari Tuna & Dustin Moskovitz2010 | Technology | $11 billion | $202,278,342 | $21,769,250 | $1.0 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesTheir philanthropy opened in 2012, and the Facebook co-founder and his wife have donated $1 billion since. They make grants focused on effectiveness and maximum impact; big grant recipients in 2017 included the Against Malaria Foundation ($15 million) and the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative ($13.5 million). The couple also reported to the Chronicle some major giving conducted through their donor-advised fund, including $54 million more to the Against Malaria Foundation in 2016 and 2017 and $25 million to GiveDirectly in 2015. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsGood Ventures Foundation Average yearly contributions: $202,278,342 Average yearly grants: $21,769,250 Latest Assets: $1,015,473,001 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Elon Musk2012 | Technology | $22 billion | $32,220,500 | $6,563,756 | $362.9 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThough he started his foundation in 2002, the Tesla founder didn’t add a significant sum to it — $255 million — until 2016. Grant making shot up from a few thousand in 2016 to $48 million in 2017, though $38 million went to Vanguard Charitable, presumably to a donor-advised fund. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsMusk Foundation Average yearly contributions: $32,220,500 Average yearly grants: $6,563,756 Latest Assets: $362,932,713 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Jonathan Nelson2012 | Finance | $1.8 billion | $2,600,137 | $3,328,375 | $59.9 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesNearly three-quarters of the $27 million in grants awarded by his foundation in 2010-17 went to Brown U., where he graduated in 1977. Much of the money was earmarked for two new capital projects: the Jonathan M. Nelson Fitness Center and the Jonathan M. Nelson Center for Entrepreneurship. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsJonathan M. Nelson Foundation Average yearly contributions: $2,600,137 Average yearly grants: $3,328,375 Latest Assets: $59,911,857 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Pierre and Pam Omidyar2010 | Technology | $11 billion | $110,306,896 | $76,927,377 | $622.7 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe giving total includes contributions made to the couple’s three grant-making hubs — the Omidyar Network as well as Humanity United and Hopelab. They say they have committed nearly $1.5 billion to philanthropy through the network alone, though almost $700 million of that went to for-profit social enterprises through a limited-liability corporation. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 15 (view profile) FoundationsHopeLab Foundation Average yearly contributions: $7,672,257 Average yearly grants: $553,381 Latest Assets: $20,179,101 (2017) Humanity United Average yearly contributions: $34,783,604 Average yearly grants: $25,998,270 Latest Assets: $57,346,241 (2017) Omidyar Network Fund Average yearly contributions: $67,851,035 Average yearly grants: $50,375,726 Latest Assets: $545,202,008 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Bob and Renee Parsons2013 | Technology | $2.5 billion | $19,215,260 | $20,164,180 | $21.3 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe founder of the GoDaddy web-hosting company and his wife opened their foundation in 2011 and invested $135 million in it over the next six years, mostly supporting organizations in the Phoenix area, where they live. In the past three years, they’ve given nearly $26 million to Semper Fi Fund; Bob Parsons is a former Marine. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsThe Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation Average yearly contributions: $19,215,260 Average yearly grants: $20,164,180 Latest Assets: $21,250,861 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Ronald Perelman2010 | Finance | $9.4 billion | $10,334,951 | $10,169,217 | $1.5 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesMacAndrews & Forbes, Perelman’s holding company, made the contributions to his foundation. Money is distributed in grants about as fast as it comes into the foundation so the value of assets changes relatively little year to year. His big gifts include a $75 million commitment to a performing-arts venue at the World Trade Center. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 6 (view profile) FoundationsPerelman Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $10,334,951 Average yearly grants: $10,169,217 Latest Assets: $1,509,970 (2017) Contributions by year
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| T. Boone Pickens2010 | Energy, Investments | < $1 billion | $411,708 | $741,096 | $3.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe flamboyant oil tycoon did a lot of news-making philanthropy in the mid-2000s, including gifts of hundreds of millions to Oklahoma State U., his alma mater. He’s made a couple of multimillion commitments more recently, including a 2013 pledge of $20 million to the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins, but he doesn’t appear to be using his foundation to fulfill those. The Texas oilman said in 2017 that his foundation, created in 2006, had given away more than $1 billion to worthy causes, but tax filings indicate it has made only $335 million in grants. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 5 (view profile) FoundationsPickens Abraham Foundation Average yearly contributions: $25,669 Average yearly grants: $162,500 Latest Assets: $3,416,202 (2017) T. Boone Pickens Foundation Average yearly contributions: $386,039 Average yearly grants: $578,595 Latest Assets: $377,123 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Ernest and Evelyn Rady2018 | Real Estate | < $1 billion | $5,815,554 | $2,216,686 | $52.2 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesTheir foundation has grown from just $4 million in assets in 2010. The couple’s recent big gifts include $50 million to the Salvation Army and $100 million to the U. of California at San Diego. The couple also have a Goldman Sachs donor-advised fund. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 5 (view profile) FoundationsRady Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $5,815,554 Average yearly grants: $2,216,686 Latest Assets: $52,151,211 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Julian Robertson Jr.2010 | Finance | $4.3 billion | $26,357,579 | $103,071,082 | $579.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesIn addition to the $211 million that Robertson donated to his foundation in 2010-17, he gave $37 million to the Tiger Foundation, the grant-making arm of his hedge fund. His own foundation awarded at least $100 million in grants each of the past six years, with assets falling from their 2009 high of $971 million. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 6 (view profile) FoundationsRobertson Foundation Average yearly contributions: $26,357,579 Average yearly grants: $103,071,082 Latest Assets: $579,797,047 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Stephen Ross2013 | Real Estate | $7.6 billion | $7,033,333 | $6,700,667 | $999,245 | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesRoss appears to do significant giving outside of his foundation, which he opened in 2015; the U. of Michigan, his alma mater, reported in 2017 that he had given $378 million to the university in his lifetime. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 3 (view profile) FoundationsStephen M. Ross Foundation Average yearly contributions: $7,033,333 Average yearly grants: $6,700,667 Latest Assets: $999,245 (2016) Contributions by year
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| John and Ginger Sall2012 | Technology | $4.4 billion | $11,414,462 | $9,646,406 | $41.6 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesTheir annual grant making more than doubled in 2010-17, to nearly $16 million. Long concerned with environmental issues, they gave $7.6 million to the World Wildlife Fund in the past two years and another $3.4 million to the Nature Conservancy. The biggest grant recipient in 2017: CARE, which got nearly $6 million. John Sall is the co-founder of the SAS Institute, which makes statistical-analysis software. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsSall Family Foundation Inc. Average yearly contributions: $11,414,462 Average yearly grants: $9,646,406 Latest Assets: $41,566,815 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Denny Sanford2010 | Finance | $2.6 billion | $7,843,750 | $1,762,882 | $63.4 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe South Dakota banker has appeared nine times on the Chronicle’s annual list of the top 50 philanthropists. He has pledged to “die broke,” and he’s credited with giving some $1 billion to Sanford Health, a rural nonprofit health system. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 9 (view profile) FoundationsDenny Sanford Foundation Average yearly contributions: $7,843,750 Average yearly grants: $1,762,882 Latest Assets: $63,431,996 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Tom and Cindy Secunda2010 | Finance, Media and Entertainment | $2.8 billion | $12,674,775 | $3,594,586 | $153.7 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesTheir foundation, which was established in 2006, typically distributes many five- and six-figure gifts to myriad Jewish causes and New York-area conservation and cultural organizations. Its two seven-figure grants in 2017: $1 million each to the Fund for the City of New York and to a proposed performing-arts venue at the World Trade Center. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsSecunda Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $12,674,775 Average yearly grants: $3,594,586 Latest Assets: $153,731,052 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Annette Simmons2011 | Family Wealth, Investments | N/A | $13,943,685 | $20,344,225 | $246,605 | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesShe is the widow of Harold Simmons, the Dallas business magnate who died in 2013. These figures reflect the financials of the Harold Simmons Foundation, which is funded largely by Contran, the investment company he founded. In 2016, she announced a $50 million pledge to help build a riverfront park in the city. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 4 (view profile) FoundationsHarold Simmons Foundation Average yearly contributions: $12,200,724 Average yearly grants: $17,801,197 Latest Assets: $246,605 (2016) Contributions by year
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| Mark Heising & Liz Simons2016 | Family Wealth, Investments | N/A | $25,666,440 | $32,399,436 | $505.1 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe daughter of legendary hedge-fund manager Jim Simons and her husband have quietly established themselves as significant philanthropists over the past decade, with their foundation’s grant making reaching $63 million in 2017 and assets growing nearly fourfold since 2010. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsHeising-Simons Foundation Average yearly contributions: $25,666,440 Average yearly grants: $32,399,436 Latest Assets: $505,089,441 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Laura Baxter-Simons and Nat Simons2017 | Family Wealth, Investments | N/A | $32,266,527 | $46,002,504 | $225.1 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesA key supporter of environmental groups and climate-change issues, their foundation has given more than $500 million toward clean energy and climate-mitigation efforts, according to a statement Nat Simons, son of retired hedge-fund billionaire Jim Simons, gave to Inside Philanthropy last year. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsSea Change Foundation Average yearly contributions: $32,266,527 Average yearly grants: $46,002,504 Latest Assets: $225,076,693 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Jim and Marilyn Simons2010 | Finance | $22 billion | $129,051,165 | $241,473,599 | $3.4 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThese figures are from the couple’s foundation and the Nick Simons Foundation, created in 2005 in memory of their son, who died in 2003. They are one of nine Giving Pledge members in our analysis who have donated $1 billion or more to their foundations since 2010. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsNick Simonds Foundation Average yearly contributions: $8,873,518 Average yearly grants: $4,217,760 Latest Assets: $78,853,473 (2017) Simons Foundation Average yearly contributions: $120,177,647 Average yearly grants: $237,255,840 Latest Assets: $3,316,187,930 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Paul Singer2013 | Finance | $3.2 billion | $93,807,375 | $19,555,285 | $852.1 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesIncluding $400 million in gifts from his firm, Elliott Management, the investor and hedge-fund manager gave $750 million to his two foundations — more than all but 10 others in our analysis, including better-known philanthropists and Wall Street icons Bill Ackman and Julian Robertson. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsPaul E. Singer Foundation Average yearly contributions: $85,682,375 Average yearly grants: $18,582,827 Latest Assets: $834,926,008 (2017) The Paul Singer Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $8,125,000 Average yearly grants: $673,750 Latest Assets: $17,164,183 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Jeff Skoll2010 | Technology, Entertainment | $4.7 billion | $13,407,936 | $21,601,306 | $618.8 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe financials below are drawn from the Skoll Foundation; he also gives to the Skoll Fund, a supporting organization with the Silicon Valley Community Foundation. The foundation reports that at the end of 2018, the two entities collectively had assets topping $1 billion and awarded grants last year of $127 million. In an email to the Chronicle, Skoll said he has given away about half of his fortune, and his remaining assets will go to the Skoll Foundation when he dies. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 5 (view profile) FoundationsSkoll Foundation Average yearly contributions: $13,407,936 Average yearly grants: $21,601,306 Latest Assets: $618,798,067 (2017) Contributions by year
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| John A. and Susan Sobrato2012 | Real Estate | $6.5 billion | $17,498,163 | $16,235,917 | $270.7 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe giving totals may include donations from their son John Michael; he signed the Giving Pledge with them, though he and his wife, Timi, have joined on their own. The foundation has gone on a spree recently, awarding a total of $64 million in 2016 and 2017 — $15 million more than in the six previous years combined. The elder Sobratos told the Chronicle that their significant recent grants include $100 million to Santa Clara University in 2016 and $29 million to the Sobrato Early Academic Language Model, a program to help California teachers working with Spanish-speaking students in prekindergarten through third grade. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsSobrato Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $16,287,151 Average yearly grants: $16,185,367 Latest Assets: $270,662,644 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Michele Chan & Patrick Soon-Shiong2010 | Pharmaceuticals | $7 billion | $35,865,641 | $5,452,470 | $248.9 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe two opened their foundation in 2009, and annual grant outlays climbed to a high of $12 million in 2017. Cambridge Equities, Patrick Soon-Shiong’s investment company, contributed about $105 million of the couple’s $287 million in gifts to the grant maker. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsChan Soon-Shiong Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $35,865,641 Average yearly grants: $5,452,470 Latest Assets: $248,893,346 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Harry Stine2017 | Agriculture | $3.9 billion | $250,000 | $629,500 | $15.6 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesStine, who parlayed soybean-genetics breakthroughs and other seed innovation into a fortune, gave $2 million to his foundation through his company in 2010-17. He personally added another $2 million in 2018. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsStine Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $250,000 Average yearly grants: $629,500 Latest Assets: $15,588,557 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Leonard Tow2012 | Telecommunications | < $1 billion | $5,993,930 | $13,732,739 | $232.9 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe 31-year-old Tow Foundation backs criminal-justice efforts, higher education (particularly in the New York area), and journalism, among other things. Its biggest 2017 grant ($5.2 million) went to Barnard College, the alma mater of Tow’s daughter, Emily Tow Jackson, president of the foundation. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsTow Foundation Inc. Average yearly contributions: $5,993,930 Average yearly grants: $13,732,739 Latest Assets: $232,898,501 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Ted Turner2010 | Media and Entertainment | $2.2 billion | $11,264,992 | $9,005,087 | $5.2 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe CNN founder is best known for his $1 billion pledge in 1997 to help establish the United Nations Foundation. He started his Turner Foundation in 1990 and was doling out $44 million in grants annually by 2000, a decade before he signed the pledge. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 6 (view profile) FoundationsTurner Foundation Average yearly contributions: $11,264,992 Average yearly grants: $9,005,087 Latest Assets: $5,203,926 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Sanford and Joan Weill2010 | Finance | $1 billion | $24,542,676 | $7,863,175 | $246.3 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesAssets in their family foundation nearly doubled from 2015 to 2017. In 2016, they committed $185 million to launch the Weill Institute for Neurosciences at the U. of California at San Francisco. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 8 (view profile) FoundationsWeill Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $24,542,676 Average yearly grants: $7,863,175 Latest Assets: $246,295,289 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Herbert and Nicole Wertheim2015 | Health Care, Investments | $2.4 billion | $513,618 | $664,444 | $63.5 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe couple makes sporadic use of their foundation — grant making was less than $50,000 annually for four consecutive years — yet they pledged $25 million from the philanthropy in 2018 to the U. of California at San Diego to build a school of public health. He is an optometrist. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 1 (view profile) FoundationsDr. Herbert and Nicole Wertheim Family Foundation, Inc. Average yearly contributions: $513,618 Average yearly grants: $664,444 Latest Assets: $63,540,787 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Charles and Merryl Snow Zegar2010 | Finance, Media and Entertainment | $2.2 billion | $14,218,704 | $4,672,230 | $176.1 million | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesFamily-foundation assets tripled from 2010 to 2017. Grant awards climbed from $2.4 million in 2010 to $8.5 million in 2017. Charles is a co-founder of Michael Bloomberg’s financial-data company. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 0 FoundationsZegar Family Foundation Average yearly contributions: $14,218,704 Average yearly grants: $4,672,230 Latest Assets: $176,070,570 (2017) Contributions by year
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| Priscilla Chan & Mark Zuckerberg2010 | Technology | $62 billion | $501,934,683 | $16,993,521 | $3.1 billion | ||||||||||||||||||
NotesThe Facebook co-founder and his wife opened the foundation in 2012 but didn’t rev up grant making until 2016; in ’16 and ’17, it doled out $102 million. They also conduct philanthropy through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, a limited-liability corporation, and a donor-advised fund at Silicon Valley Community Foundation. The Chronicle estimates their total charitable giving since 2010 at $3.8 billion. Years in the Philanthropy 50: 5 (view profile) FoundationsChan Zuckerberg Foundation Average yearly contributions: $501,934,683 Average yearly grants: $16,993,521 Latest Assets: $3,126,501,381 (2017) Contributions by year
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Methodology
The contributions and foundations data has been compiled from analysis of annual foundation filings with the Internal Revenue Service from 2010 (the year the Giving Pledge launched) through 2017 or the latest year available. Contributions to a foundation were credited to a Giving Pledge member if the donation was made individually, through a trust in the person’s name, or through a business enterprise owned by the member. Other contributions to the foundation were excluded.
For this work, the data-nonprofit Candid identified the foundations affiliated with Giving Pledge members as part of its “Eye on the Giving Pledge” project. It also provided some of the data for our giving snapshots, although for some donors, we concluded that the information could not be analyzed.
Note: Giving Pledge members may give to foundations not identified by Candid. Also, the Chronicle did not attempt to examine the giving of pledge members for whom Candid did not identify affiliated foundations.
Estimated net worth figures are from the Forbes ranking of billionaires from March 2019. The wealth of Giving Pledge members not appearing in that ranking is noted as less than $1 billion.