Our Mission
Since 1997, the Lily Auchincloss Foundation (LAF) has been providing grants to help promote the quality of life in New York City. Our focus is to reach and support small to mid-size organizations throughout the five boroughs.
Who We Support
LAF supports organizations with 501(c)3 status with programs in art, historic preservation, environment, and community which serve to enrich the lives of the people of New York City.
LAF does not award grants to the following:
*Individuals
*Programs for New York City residents outside of the five boroughs
*Research projects
*Mental health programs, medical services, hospitals, nursing homes, substance abuse programs
*Universities or schools (public, private or charter schools)
Before applying for one of our foundation grants, please make sure you meet all of the eligibility requirements found here.
Participatory Grantmaking
In 2022, the foundation began to invite community members and past grantees to join and assist the board and staff in the grant evaluation process.
Covid-19 Response
In the spring of 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the environmental cycle was cancelled. The foundation focused on immediate funding, by board decision and nomination only, in human services, food, and the environment (parks) in NYC.
The Lily Auchincloss Foundation partnered with various funders and consortiums as the New York Community Trust’s Covid-19 Response & Impact Fund, the United States Artists Relief Fund to support NYC artists, the City Parks Foundation’s NYC Green Relief & Recovery Fund, and as a member of the Community Food Funders, a project of North Star Fund.
The grant cycles resumed in the fall with the arts 2020 cycle.
