The Colcom Foundation cares about the environment in southwest Pennsylvania. Their grant-making activities in Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Somerset, Washington, and Westmoreland counties. The emphasis is on protecting and restoring green and water resources for future generations. The foundation also supports organizations, like The Environmental Integrity Project, which works for better enforcement of existing environmental regulations.

Started by Cordelia S. May, the Colcom Foundation reflects her dedication to maintain an ecological balance in her community despite the growing population. She was 68 when she started the foundation in 1996, and when she died in 2005, the foundation’s funding substantially grew. May was an amazing philanthropist. In 2005, she donated more to charity than any other person in the United States. Now Colcom Foundation can contribute to a wide range of organizations that work to fulfill her vision.

Humans need green spaces, even those who live in cities. Numerous studies have shown that access to nature is good for people’s moods and mental health. The foundation helps fund organizations such as Tree Pittsburgh. This organization protects the city’s urban forest by planting additional trees and educating the public about land conservation.

The Colcom Foundation knows that connecting green spaces is important for people and wildlife. They support the Hollow Oak Land Trust. They focus on trial connections between parks and conservation areas. These trails are also beneficial to the local economy as homes near the trails have higher property values.

Health and human services organizations also receive funding from the Colcom foundation. These include the Compassion & Choices organization and Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs. The Compassion & Choices organization helps individuals with their end-of-life journey and Guardian Angels Medical Service Dogs provides veterans in Pittsburg with service dogs to enhance their quality of life. Read this article for more information.

Learn more about Colcom Foundation on https://fconline.foundationcenter.org/fdo-grantmaker-profile?key=COLC002