Jeffrey P. Ossen resided in Mansfield, Connecticut for over 40 years, where he raised his three daughters and built deep ties in his community. Throughout his lifetime, he was actively involved on the Windham Hospital Board, served on various local political committees, and engaged with his synagogue. After beginning his career as a practicing attorney and teaching business law at the University of Connecticut, Jeffrey transitioned to real estate development. He established his office in North Windham, Connecticut—located in one of his manufactured housing communities—and eventually expanded his business throughout Connecticut and into Vermont and New Hampshire.

The Jeffrey P. Ossen Family Foundation was established in accordance with Jeffrey’s wishes following his passing in 2007. He envisioned a legacy where his three daughters could actively participate in and guide charitable endeavors. From 2010 to 2021, the Foundation focused its grantmaking in Windham County, CT, supporting numerous local nonprofit organizations and Windham Hospital.

In 2022, Jeffrey’s daughters—Elizabeth, Jacqueline, and Carolyn—became the sole Trustees of the Foundation, with Jacqueline taking on the role of Executive Director. As the Trustees began defining the next phase of the Foundation’s work, they expanded its geographic focus to include all the eastern and central regions of Connecticut. 

Present – Although the Foundation has set initial funding priorities in housing, education, and physical and emotional health, it remains committed to adapting its areas of interest as community needs evolve.