Purpose:

To improve the quality of life within our region by promoting and increasing responsible and effective philanthropy.

Description:

Founded in 1983, the Greater New Orleans Foundation is a public charity that provides a permanent and growing source of funding to hundreds of nonprofit agencies serving the greater New Orleans region. Every day, GNOF joins other foundations, nonprofit organizations, community leaders, experts and government officials to address the needs of the community and build consensus for solutions.

Assets:

$192 million, of which $117 million is endowed. Endowments benefit the greater New Orleans region in perpetuity as the assets generated by these permanent gifts continue to grow and yield grant funding for the needs of current and future generations.

In 2007, GNOF received $37 million in contributions to new and existing funds.

Investment Performance:

                        Endowment Returns             1 year      3 year        5 year   

                        As of 12/31/07                      10.34%   12.67%      13.05%

Grantmaking:

In 2007, GNOF awarded $13 Million. Since its inception in 1983, GNOF has granted over $100 million back into the community.

Key Funding Areas:

                    Community Revitalization/Housing           Rural and Regional Outreach 

                    Education                                              

                    Workforce Development

Rebuild New Orleans Fund:

The Rebuild New Orleans Fund was established immediately after Hurricane Katrina.  Generous individuals, families, foundations and corporations have responded to the needs of our community with gifts totaling over $30 million. In response, GNOF’s board created a five-year strategy to strengthen the capacity of New Orleans’ nonprofit sector and in some cases encourage the creation of new, responsive institutions. GNOF is committed to rebuilding a New Orleans that is better and stronger and includes a community infrastructure that is racially and socially equitable and inclusive.

Leadership:

GNOF is led by its Board of Trustees, 23 residents of the greater New Orleans region with diverse and professional backgrounds who are involved in many community and charitable activities. They include Board Chair Myron E. Moorehead, M.D., Immediate Past Chair M. Cleland Powell III, and Interim President and CEO Ellen M. Lee.