Striving for Change in Connecticut

The Jeffrey P. Ossen Family Foundation is a Connecticut based family foundation that strives to impact change by partnering with organizations that inspire change and contribute to building a more equitable, just and healthy society.

Striving for Change in Connecticut

The Jeffrey P. Ossen Family Foundation is a Connecticut based family foundation that strives to impact change by partnering with organizations that inspire change and contribute to building a more equitable, just and healthy society.

The Foundation’s core values are rooted in the principle of TIKKUN OLAM, ‘Repair of the World’ and guide our philanthropic activities.

Humility, Equity, Curiosity, Collaboration, Well-Being, Stewardship

“We bear responsibility not only for our own welfare, but also for the welfare of society at large; therefore, we are called upon to make the world more just, peaceful, tolerant and equal through acts of charity, kindness, and political action.”

― Jewish Funders Network

Funding Priorities

The JPOFF funds project, capacity building, and general operating support grants in the following priority areas:

Housing

Improve access to safe, affordable and stable housing

Education

High-quality educational and workforce development opportunities

Physical & Emotional Health

Access to affordable and quality healthcare services

Currently, the Foundation’s priority areas are evolving as we evaluate and determine our strategy for impactful grantmaking. During this time, JPOFF will continue to accept grant proposals that address processes to improve and make systemic change in these three areas. JPOFF acknowledges that each priority area is interconnected, and without stability in one domain, challenges in achieving stability in other areas become significantly greater.

Grant Application Process

We do not accept unsolicited grant proposals. If you believe your organization would be a good fit for partnering with JPOFF, please submit a Letter of Interest. Letters of Interest are accepted year-round. Please be aware we may not be able to respond to all Letters of interest due to the volume received.

Our Impact

$11M+

Grants awarded since 2013

100+

Nonprofits Funded To Date

Higher Edge

2023 – $25,000 for The College Access Program

Grow Windham

2024 – 2 year $60,000 to support The Windham Youth CORE Food System Apprenticeship Program

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut

2023 – 2 year $100,000 for the Community and Site Based mentoring program