ABOUT THE FUND

The David Samuel Orr Fund for the Earth is housed with the Calvert Foundation Giving Fund, a socially responsible donor-advised fund that puts 100% of its investments into charitable projects. We enjoy peace of mind knowing that our philanthropy does not stop at the bank. To read more about the Calvert Foundation, please click here.

The David Samuel Orr Fund for the Earth conducts fundraising efforts through online outreach and donations and with an annual letter-writing campaign. The Calvert Foundation handles the financial aspect of our operations, and provides 501(c)(3) status so that donor gifts are tax-deductible.

Our grantmaking cycle begins in the spring when our board meets to review proposals collected from potential grantees. We make our granting decisions on David's birthday, March 21, as a way to remember and honor him.

Deciding where our grants will go is often difficult, as there are many grassroots groups focusing on pressing issues and doing good work. Ultimately, we choose organizations that we believe will feel the greatest impact from our gift.

Our fundraising efforts began in 1998 with a letter written and addressed to family and friends. Over the years we have been amazed and touched by how many of these dear people continue to support our work. With their generosity, and with the new friends we are finding, our endowment continues to grow.