The Dr. Robert C. and Tina Sohn Foundation continues the vision and values of its founders, who lived in alignment with both spiritual and ecological principles. Rooted in a philosophy of holistic living, the Foundation promotes a world where individuals have access to clean air, organic food, and enriching experiences through the arts. In keeping with this legacy, the Foundation provides philanthropic support to organizations working in the fields of environmental protection, alternative health care, and the arts.
The Foundation places particular emphasis on educational projects that promote awareness of these core focus areas, especially those targeting underserved communities and youth. While its central focus remains on these topics, the Foundation retains flexibility to support other causes aligned with the Sohns’ broader vision, including poverty alleviation and community health and education initiatives. The Foundation's giving strategy is designed to support qualified projects that help institutions fulfill their mission of serving community needs.
Eligible applicants include public or private U.S.-based nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Funded institutions must demonstrate a mission that aligns with the Foundation’s areas of interest: the environment, health and human services, education, and the arts. Grants are typically awarded for specific programs, including new or existing initiatives and capital campaigns. However, the Foundation does not fund operating deficits, endowments, loans, or fundraising events.
The Foundation requires a detailed inquiry submission as the first step in the application process. This includes a description of the applicant organization’s mission and services, the proposed project, its budget and timing, and required documentation such as IRS Form 990-PF, audited financials, and 501(c)(3) verification. Organizations that align with the Foundation’s priorities will be contacted for further steps. A site visit may be conducted as part of the review process, and recipients are required to submit a progress report upon project completion to ensure grant compliance.
Submissions should be mailed to the Foundation’s office in Sheffield, Massachusetts. For inquiries, applicants may call the Foundation at 212-408-0590.
