The Joseph Kennard Skilling Trust was established in 1963 by its namesake philanthropist, with the purpose of supporting charitable organizations that serve the community of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Though Joseph Kennard Skilling passed away in 1974, his legacy endures through a foundation that continues to provide grants aimed at improving the welfare and quality of life of residents in the Philadelphia area.
The trust prioritizes funding programs that benefit vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, at-risk youth, individuals experiencing homelessness, and people with physical or mental impairments. Additional areas of interest include education programs for disadvantaged groups, spousal and child abuse prevention, and family counseling services. While grants are available to organizations throughout Pennsylvania, the trust historically gives preference to those operating within the Philadelphia community.
To qualify for funding, applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The trust does not fund capital construction, general equipment purchases unrelated to disadvantaged youth education, or large national organizations and their affiliates. Religious institutions are eligible only when offering education to disadvantaged youth, support for the elderly, or services for the homeless. Applications are judged on program effectiveness, organizational capacity, community necessity, and the ability to deliver measurable results.
Applications are accepted year-round, with two annual review cycles. Submissions must be received by either April 1 or October 1 to be considered for the next grant meeting, held in May and November, respectively. Grant recipients will receive an automated confirmation email upon application and can expect decisions within approximately three months of the deadline.
Grant sizes generally range from $1,000 to $10,000, with an average of 65 grants awarded annually. Awarded organizations are required to submit a progress report within six months of receiving funds, unless otherwise noted in their grant agreement. All program inquiries and submissions are administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., acting as Co-Trustee of the fund.
