Leon Levine Foundation

Established in 1980 by Leon Levine, the founder and Chairman Emeritus of Family Dollar Stores, Inc., The Leon Levine Foundation operates with a mission to foster permanent, measurable, and life-altering improvements to the human condition across the Carolinas.

This philanthropic organization directs its resources towards several key sectors. In healthcare, the focus is on enhancing the quality and accessibility of medical services, including support for medical research and treatments aimed at prolonging life and improving its quality. The education pillar supports public education from birth through 12th grade and facilitates post-secondary scholarship access for motivated individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Furthermore, the Foundation is committed to 'Building Jewish identity and strengthening Jewish Communities.' It also invests significantly in community and cultural enrichment, contributing to the enhancement of cities within the Carolinas. This involves backing historical preservation efforts and cultural projects that promote diversity, with a preference for established, best-in-class organizations demonstrating quality programming and substantial operational budgets, particularly within the Charlotte region where Leon Levine has strong ties.

The Foundation functions by strategically investing its endowment in programs and organizations aligned with its mission. Its objective is to create lasting positive change, thereby enriching the region for current inhabitants and attracting new residents. The emphasis is on supporting initiatives that can demonstrate significant and meaningful impact within their respective communities.

Keywords: philanthropy, grantmaking, Carolinas, healthcare funding, education support, Jewish communities, cultural investment, community development, endowment, non-profit