Mission
Our mission is to meet basic human needs while building individual and social resiliency.
Established in 1987, the Bernard & Audre Rapoport Foundation has dedicated over $70 million in grants to improve the social fabric of life.
The Foundation seeks innovative solutions to intractable and persistent problems and strives to cultivate emerging talents and promising models.
The entire Rapoport family is actively involved in the Foundation’s operations, which has touched many lives in the areas of education, arts and culture, health, community building & social services, and democracy & civic participation.
This commitment is rooted in generations past and continues to mold our future.
2023 Thomas G. Salome, Jr. Legacy Award presented by the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce
Video produced & directed by: Will Aker | Willow Film Company
Areas of Funding Priorities
ARTS & CULTURE
The Foundation supports artistic and cultural programs that encourage the participation of children and disadvantaged members of the community thereby enriching their lives. Education and cultivation of new and young patrons is encouraged.
EDUCATION
The Foundation is interested in the broad area of education but with a special concern for early learning up to and through the elementary years. Other areas of interest include adult education and training initiatives, college and career readiness, and programs that enhance the capabilities of teachers and other professionals in public schools.
COMMUNITY BUILDING & SOCIAL SERVICES
The Foundation seeks to build communities that improve the quality of life for all citizens and foster the growth and development of children. The Foundation encourages programs that build grassroots neighborhood networks, provide job training and opportunities for the unemployed and under-employed, or provide a comprehensive safety net of social services for the least-advantaged citizens.
HEALTH
The Foundation seeks to improve the quality and delivery of healthcare services to all citizens, especially to women, children, and those who do not have access to conventional medical resources.
DEMOCRACY & CIVIC PARTICIPATION
The Foundation supports efforts both to make government more responsive and to encourage citizens to take an active interest and role in civic life. The Foundation promotes intergovernmental cooperation as well as initiatives that broaden citizen awareness of public policy issues and alternatives, build skills necessary for political leadership, and provide opportunities for community service.