In the latest episode of GrantTalk, Libby Hikind, founder of GrantWatch, invites Tim Tramble Sr., President and CEO of the Saint Luke’s Foundation of Cleveland to share his grant-giving insights. They go on to discuss how Saint Luke’s prioritizes impact and equity in its philanthropic efforts. Saint Luke’s was established in 1997 with a $200 million endowment. The foundation focuses on addressing health disparities and empowering communities through innovative, equitable funding practices.
A Transparent, Community-Focused Process
Saint Luke’s Foundation employs a trust-based philanthropy model. They start every application process with a conversation to ensure alignment with the foundation’s strategy. This approach respects applicants’ time and fosters partnerships rooted in mutual understanding.
The Saint Luke’s Foundation is particularly focused on addressing the social determinants of health within Cuyahoga County, emphasizing racial equity. “If you’re not serving people in a way where they can see themselves in your services, it doesn’t align with our principles,” Tramble explained.
Saint Luke’s Foundation: Breaking Barriers to Funding
Historically, many BIPOC-led organizations have been excluded from funding due to systemic inequities, including lack of administrative resources. Saint Luke’s Foundation addresses this by emphasizing community engagement and valuing grassroots impact over administrative perfection. “We give people the opportunity to make mistakes,” Tramble said. “Innovation happens when communities are given the chance to experiment and learn.”
Saint Luke’s Foundation’s grants include:
- Community Grants (up to $6,000): Open to neighborhood groups and grassroots initiatives, even without 501(c)(3) status.
- Staff Discretionary Grants (up to $25,000): Fund projects aligning with Saint Luke’s strategies.
- Board Grants (starting at $40,000): For larger-scale initiatives vetted by the foundation’s board.
This tiered grant structure ensures that the foundation can address a wide range of community needs. As a result, they can fund everything from small-scale neighborhood projects to larger, long-term initiatives.
A Commitment to Community
The Foundation’s unique approach underscores its belief in the power of local knowledge and grassroots leadership. This way, they ensure that the community hears and acts upon its voices.
This inclusive model bridges the gap between equity and innovation. What’s more, it offers opportunities to those who may have been overlooked in traditional funding models. Whether it’s a small group of parents organizing a neighborhood program or an emerging nonprofit with big dreams, the foundation proves that every idea has potential. With the chance to thrive, these ideas can create meaningful change.
A Call for Equitable Philanthropy
Tramble advocates for reimagining philanthropy to empower communities to solve their own challenges. “Philanthropy needs to stop dictating solutions and start investing in people’s ideas,” he emphasized. By building local capacity and supporting grassroots initiatives, Saint Luke’s aims to foster lasting change.
GrantWatch Is a Valuable Resource
GrantWatch plays a strong role in connecting organizations with funding opportunities. Tramble acknowledges its reach and potential, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about funding strategies and geographic focus areas.
Looking Ahead
Saint Luke’s Foundation is committed to flipping traditional philanthropy on its head. By redirecting resources to those closest to the challenges, the foundation seeks to create meaningful, sustainable impact. “We’re investing in people helping themselves and building wealth within their communities,” Tramble concluded.
Grant funding is not just about money—it’s about empowerment, equity, and trust. Foundations like Saint Luke’s are paving the way for a more inclusive future. Like Libby says, “Education, career training, and entrepreneurial skills are essential, but the true key is investment in people’s ideas and their ability to succeed.” This sentiment underscores the importance of collaborative, community-driven efforts to create lasting change.
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