What does the Case Foundation do?
The Case Foundation invests in individuals, nonprofits, and social enterprises aiming to connect people, increase giving, and catalyze civic action. We encourage a culture of giving, in all its forms, at any time and any place. We empower individuals, consumers, corporations, and communities to exercise their willingness to give -- and give more -- in smarter, more efficient, and more impactful ways. And we strive to make these practices as direct, transparent, and democratic as possible.

How did the foundation come to be?
The Case Foundation was founded in 1997 by Steve and Jean Case. Following their successful business careers and the founding of AOL, the foundation enabled them to live out the basic precept of their philanthropy: To whom much is given, much is expected.

Over the years, Steve and Jean recognized how much their for-profit experience influenced their grantmaking style, expectations, partner choices, and decisions. As a result, the foundation evolved from a grantmaking organization focusing on health, mentoring, civic engagement and more, into an organization that addresses the intersection of their twin passions: technology and its use by consumers for giving.

Who does the foundation fund?
The Case Foundation invests its resources in specific projects and initiatives that complement its approach to philanthropy. Our grants and staff time are focused on partnerships that we develop proactively with nonprofits, businesses, and other foundations. We do not review or consider unsolicited proposals.

What are some of the foundation's key initiatives?
In 2007, the Case Foundation launched the Make It Your Own Awards, an online grants program that involved the public in nearly every aspect of decision making and design, and used the latest Web 2.0 tools to empower applicants to raise funds and connect with supporters. Similarly, the 2007-2008 America's Giving Challenge and the Causes Giving Challenge -- launched in partnership with Parade Magazine, Facebook, Global Giving, and Network for Good -- empowered people to use technology to improve their giving experience, support the causes they care about, and encourage others to give. Over 80,000 people participated in these initiatives.