The Mertz Gilmore Foundation is a private, independent grantmaking institution that supports and promotes human rights, healthy communities, the performing arts, and a sustainable environment. The Foundation uses a variety of philanthropic strategies to strengthen civic and cultural institutions in under-served communities of New York City, to support human rights defenders throughout the United States, and to address the climate crisis.

Today, with assets of roughly $100 million, Mertz Gilmore continues a five decade tradition of focused grantmaking on a small number of programs while maintaining relatively long-term commitments to its core areas of concern. The Foundation makes grants through four programs:

The New York City Dance program sustains a high level of activity and visibility for dance in the city, and cultivates a rich mix of artists and audiences.

The Human Rights in the U.S. program tests and supports the use of human rights advocacy in the realization of social change and justice in the United States. Mertz Gilmore currently supports human rights work in 13 states.

The New York City Communities program promotes an equitable and sustainable city of vibrant communities by supporting work in low-income neighborhoods that emerges from, and actively engages, local efforts. Mertz Gilmore grantees are involved in work in all five boroughs.

The Climate Change Solutions program aims to bring about substantial reductions in global warming pollution through sustainable policy and practice. The program is largely focused on state and regional initiatives that help catalyze the development of a national regulatory framework to address the climate crisis.

In addition to the core grantmaking programs, the Foundation provides free convening space to civil society organizations and makes grants to a range of charitable institutions reflecting the values and professional commitments of the Foundation’s Board and staff.

Mertz Gilmore benefits in its work from diversity at all levels of its operations. In working with other organizations and individuals, the Foundation values those who understand and share its commitment to diversity.