Christina Rickman
12-18-2023
The Knott Foundation offices will be closed December 25 through January 1, and will re-open on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.
We wish you all a joyous holiday season and a happy new year!
Kathleen McCarthy
12-15-2023
An end of year message from Team Knott
Dear friends and grantee partners,
Preparation, Dedication, Joy, Unity, and Purpose – five words that convey the meaning behind the seasons of Advent, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. While seasonal in t
his context, they are unceasing words describing the work of you, our friends, and grantee partners.
Through your preparation, dedication, unity, and purpose, you have provided refuge, respite, and reassurance to those in need, strengthening the communities that our founders, Henry and Marion, cared so deeply about. By doing so with a joyful spirit, even in your most challenging times, you have exemplified Henry and Marion’s approach to their life’s work.
We are humbled by the example you have set for us, and we too strive to measure up to the meaning of those five words in our own work. In 2023, we were afforded the opportunity to endeavor to do so with a new team. Welcoming Kelley Kilduff, Executive Director, and Jessica Feldt, Grants and Database Administrator, in June of this year, we began to build capacity for deepening existing connections and building new ones.
As we look ahead to 2024, we do so with great anticipation and high aspirations. Anticipation over a new website to be launched in early 2024, our 2023 Annual Report in late February, and another Open House in the spring. Aspirations to become more intentional and streamlined grantmakers with a greater focus on collaborating and convening. We also look ahead with tremendous appreciation for you and boundless awe for the work you do.
With warm regards and profound gratitude,
Team Knott (Christina, Jessica, Kathleen and Kelley)
Jessica Feldt
10-11-2023
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in arts and humanities, Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 19 organizations received over $833,000 in our October grant cycle.
Arts and Humanities
- B&O Railroad Museum: $60,000 to support Restore Baltimore, a targeted, applied, and intensive workforce development program for the under-employed, offered on the Museum’s 40-acre southwest Baltimore campus, in partnership with the Community College of Baltimore County
Catholic Activities
- Cathedral of Mary Our Queen Church: $80,000 to support the first phase of a lighting retrofit project at this, the mother church of the Archdiocese of Baltimore located in northwest Baltimore City
- St Francis de Sales: $10,000 to support the enhancement and expansion of youth-focused Religious Education programs at this thriving Catholic parish located in Harford County
Education
- Baltimore Urban Baseball Association: $10,000 to support the Free Membership Program providing access to a state-of-the-art youth training center in the Pigtown neighborhood of Baltimore City, using baseball and softball as tools to provide mentorship and promote community engagement for youth ages 4 – 25
- HASA: $15,000 to support the Gateway for a Healthy Future initiative, focusing on renovations of the Gateway School’s gym to better serve this K-8 school’s population experiencing a broad spectrum of sensory, cognitive, and social differences
- The John Carroll School: $80,000 to support improvements and technology upgrades in the theatre of this co-educational independent Catholic high school located in Harford County
- Maryland Book Bank: $45,000 to support the general operating costs of this Baltimore City-based organization cultivating literacy in under-served neighborhoods by increasing access to quality books
- Mother Seton Academy: $48,000 to support the general operations of this tuition-free independent Catholic middle school located in the East Baltimore Midway neighborhood of Baltimore City
- Mother Seton School: $20,000 to support technology investments at this this PreK-8 independent Catholic school in Emmitsburg
- Mount Saint Joseph High School: $65,000 to support technology upgrades designed to expand virtual learning and teaching opportunities at this Catholic college preparatory school serving young men in grades 9 – 12 in Baltimore City
- St. Francis Neighborhood Center: $48,500 to support the general operations of this Reservoir Hill-based nonprofit’s flagship out-of-school time program, the Power Project
Health Care
- Horizon Day Camp Baltimore: $37,362 to support transportation costs for children with cancer and their siblings attending Horizon’s summer camp in Baltimore
Human Services
- Associated Catholic Charities: $53,375 to support the general operations of the Esperanza Center’s Client Services program providing support to immigrants living in and around Baltimore City
- Asylee Women Enterprise: $45,000 to support the expansion and improvement of the Day Program providing educational, material, and financial support to asylum seekers and foreign-born survivors of human trafficking
- Baltimore Hunger Project: $45,000 to support the hiring of a development director to further grow the work of this Baltimore County-based organization dedicated to eliminating weekend childhood hunger
- HOPE for All Inc.: $42,000 to support this Anne Arundel County-based organization’s Turning Houses into Homes program, providing families transitioning from homelessness access to basic household necessities to establish healthy homes free of charge
- House of Ruth Maryland: $65,000 to support the general operations of the Clinical Program, providing therapy, client transportation, and emergency food assistance to individuals facing or fleeing Intimate Partner Violence
- Open Works, Inc.: $48,500 to support capacity building at this makerspace located in the Greenmount West neighborhood of Baltimore City dedicated to making tools, technology, and the knowledge to use them accessible to all
- Second Chances Garage, Inc.: $15,000 to support the Reduced Cost Car Repair program, providing needed auto repair services at reduced rates to low-income families in the Frederick area
Jessica Feldt
06-14-2023
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 12 organizations received over $780,000 in our June grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- The Baltimore Basilica: $60,000 to support renovation of the Sexton Lodge into a Café of Hospitality to serve as a gathering place for parishioners and community members
- Monsignor O’Dwyer Retreat House: $78,450 to support a replacement fire protection system for the retreat house in Sparks, which hosts over 7,000 people each year
Education
- Mount de Sales Academy: $150,00 to support needed porch repairs to the 1852 academic building on its historic Catonsville campus
- Next One Up Foundation: $65,000 to support the Career Exposure and Workplace Development programs that help young men in the program find pathways to quality jobs
- South Baltimore Learning Center: $50,000 to support technology upgrades for learners and staff to assist their programs for literacy, life skills training, and career preparation for adult learners
Health Care
- Pro Bono Counseling: $40,000 to support their work providing mental health care through the volunteer services of licensed mental health professionals
Human Services
- Itineris: $40,000 to support their efforts to formalize a Consulting Program to help train other organizations with their mission to empower adults on the autism spectrum
- Maryland Therapeutic Riding: $50,000 to support the creation of a new Learning Lab to support participants of this Crownsville based organization that uses connection with horses to help individuals with physical, developmental, and emotional challenges
- Weekend Backpacks for Homeless Kids: $50,000 to support their ongoing efforts to provide bags of food to food-insecure Baltimore City youth to bridge the gap between school provided meals on weekdays
06-13-2023
It is with great pleasure that we announce Jessica Feldt as a new member of Team Knott!
Jessica Feldt joins the Knott Foundation as the Grants & Database Administrator after 21 years in the nonprofit community. She has worked at various history and humanities nonprofits in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Washington DC and most recently spent five years at Preservation Maryland administering their small grants program, the Heritage Fund. Jessica has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Michigan University and a Masters from Penn State University.
Having grown up in Michigan, Jessica now lives in Northeast Baltimore with her husband, daughter, energetic dog, and two cats.
Working alongside our Program Director Kathleen McCarthy, Jessica is “excited to join the Knott Foundation and to have the chance to help support its work.” We are certainly excited to have Jessica on the team and know that she will be a huge support to our grantees and community partners.
06-02-2023
Martin G. Knott, President of the Marion I. and Henry J. Knott Foundation’s Board of Trustees, announced that the Foundation has selected Kelley Q. Kilduff as its new Executive Director.
“Kelley Kilduff’s long career with institutions that underscore and strengthen Catholic values will be a terrific asset for our family foundation as we continue the work my parents began over 45 years ago. Her energy and enthusiasm for our mission, along with her accomplished history and leadership experience, will carry us forward in the years to come,” Knott said.
Kilduff will assume her new position at the Foundation on June 12 after completing nearly a decade at Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU), where she has most recently served as their Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Communications.
Prior to NDMU, Kelley held leadership positions at Maryvale Preparatory School, Sts. Peter and Paul Schools in Easton, and Mount de Sales Academy, as well as being a Regional Director of Major Gifts for Catholic Relief Services and Director of Marketing for the American Cancer Society, both in Orlando. Kilduff holds a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Central Florida and a Bachelor’s of Science in Communication Studies from Northwestern University.
Kilduff replaces Kelly C. Medinger, who led the Foundation since 2012. Medinger resigned from the Foundation in December 2022 but has continued to advise the Trustees and Executive Team during this period of transition.
“I am honored to partner with the Knott Foundation's Board of Trustees and Executive Team to continue to advance the mission and legacy of their founders, Henry and Marion Knott,” stated Kilduff. “In addition, Kelly Medinger's leadership was transformational, and I am grateful for her dedication and support. She and the Foundation have led the way in values-driven philanthropy,” Kilduff reflected.
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I would like to thank Kelly Medinger for her years of helping to grow and professionalize our work in the Maryland philanthropic and Catholic communities, and extend a very warm welcome to Kelley Kilduff as our new Executive Director,” Knott said.
02-18-2023
Celebrating 45 years of giving back to the community
We are pleased to announce the publication of our 2022 annual report.
“Celebrating 45 years of giving back to the community,” is the theme of our report.
In addition to celebrating a milestone in our history as a Catholic family foundation, the year 2022 brought a good deal of change to the Knott Foundation, which our President details in his opening letter.
With over $2.8 million in grants being awarded to organizations in our various program areas, our annual report showcases the Knott Foundation's giving to the many different types of organizations we support across central and western Maryland.
Thank you for your interest in our work as we celebrate 45 years of giving back to the community.
By Kathleen McCarthy
02-14-2023
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care and human services
We are pleased to announce that 17 organizations received over $850,000 in our February grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Jesuit Volunteer Corps: $30,000 to support the general operations of their Baltimore-based programming, linking young people who are committed to putting their faith in action with local nonprofits serving communities in need
- Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi: $45,000 to support a memorial project to honor and reflect the mission, history, and values of the Franciscan Sisters of Baltimore, founders of St. Elizabeth School and the Franciscan Center of Baltimore
- St. Augustine Church: $27,000 to support the replacement of the front stairs at this parish based in Williamsport; one of three parishes comprising the Pastorate, The Catholic Parishes of South Washington County
Education
- Dyslexia Tutoring Program: $55,000 to support the general operations of this specialized tutoring program providing services free-of-charge to low-income children and adults with language-based learning differences
- Improving Education: $45,000 to support the expansion of this early childhood literacy program’s work into additional Catholic Charities supported Head Start sites throughout Baltimore City
- The Loyola School: $115,000 to support (re)construction work enabling this high-quality tuition-free school to expand their mission from pre-K to pre-K through grade 4
- St. Maria Goretti High School: $80,000 to support the acquisition of transportation to better serve the student population attending this Archdiocesan Catholic high school in Hagerstown
Health Care
- Community Free Clinic: $45,000 to support general operating costs associated with the Community Mental Health Care Center serving as a safety net provider for Washington County residents who are uninsured
- Gilchrist Hospice Care: $50,000 to support charity care hospice services for patients in need at Gilchrist Center Baltimore located in the Waverly neighborhood
Human Services
- Caroline Friess Center: $45,000 to support operational costs for this organization’s tuition-free career and life skills educational program serving unemployed and underemployed women in Baltimore
- Fuel Fund of Maryland: $15,000 to support energy assistance to single-parent households through the newly launched Power of One program
- Heartly House: $45,000 to support the general operations of this Frederick County based nonprofit providing comprehensive services, free of charge, to survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse
- The Light House: $20,000 to support the implementation of a Landlord Engagement Strategy with the goal of increasing permanent housing opportunities and decreasing the number of individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Annapolis and throughout Anne Arundel County
- Living Classrooms Foundation: $35,000 to support the general operations of Project SERVE, a community service and job-training program for unemployed and disadvantaged adults in Baltimore City
- Partners in Care Maryland: $50,000 to support the general operations of the Anne Arundel County site supporting the independence of older adults ages 60+ through service exchanges and community building
By Martin G. Knott
01-01-2023
Kathleen McCarthy promoted to Program Director
Happy 2023!
An exciting and very important change to the Executive Team has occurred. Here is why and how we chose this path.
The Knott Foundation is unique in that our volunteer board members (all 33 of whom are family) support the work of the Foundation by serving on multiple committees and conducting the majority of site visits with potential grantees. Site visits provide a deep insight into the inner workings of non-profits seeking financial support. These visits also give the Foundation a bird’s eye view of the needs of communities we serve across Maryland.
A common thread from the grantees has been that the access to the Executive Team is paramount to providing a better understanding of what information is important to formulating their potential grant proposal. In my experience and that of a host of the Board, the most repeated comment is the value of one very special person the Executive Team. That individual is Kathleen McCarthy.
Kathleen joined the Foundation in a part time role in 2007 and went full time in 2008. Her insight and openness, along with a passion for helping grantees in a plethora of ways are essential to every aspect of our giving. Kathleen played a key role in implementing suggestions regarding policies and procedures. These adjustments have made us stronger and somewhat more flexible. Because of the above and a host of other reasons articulated by grantees (like kindness, empathy, strategic suggestions, and availability) Kathleen McCarthy has been promoted to Program Director. In this new role, her duties have increased dramatically along with her responsibilities and authority. The Knott Foundation is delighted that Kathleen has chosen to accept this promotion and is fortunate to have her continue on the Executive Team.
On a personal note, Kathleen is a joy to work with and I look forward to learning from her vast knowledge and experiences. Please join me in congratulating Kathleen.
By Lindsay R. Gallagher
10-31-2022
Announcing our leadership transition and search
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
I’m writing to share that Kelly Medinger, our most trusted and valued Executive Director of the Knott Foundation for the last decade, has shared her intentions to resign from her post, effective December 31, 2022.
Kelly will indeed be missed. Her unwavering dedication to our mission, her institutional knowledge of our Foundation, her keen understanding of family dynamics, and her strong team-building with our executive staff have all contributed greatly towards the growth, focus, and stability of our Catholic family foundation. In addition, her interpersonal skills and astute insights always served us well over these many years.
While her shoes will not be easy to fill, we are embarking on a search for a new Executive Director. We are pleased to share that position announcement in this e-newsletter and on our website and look forward to receiving applications from candidates interested in the role.
On behalf of the entire Knott family and Board of Trustees, I extend my sincere thanks to Kelly. Our hearts are full of immense gratitude for her “too numerous to mention accomplishments,” which have left an indelible mark on our 45-year history. We all wish her the best in her future endeavors, and we look forward to welcoming a new Executive Director in the coming months.
With deepest appreciation,
Lindsay R. Gallagher
President
The Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Foundation
By Kelly Medinger
10-30-2022
Sharing my joy and gratitude for this amazing leadership opportunity
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
Since joining the Knott Foundation in 2011, my heart has been full of gratitude. I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to work with a fantastic team of professional staff, an engaged and talented Board of Trustees, and a vast array of nonprofit organizations and community leaders who care deeply about Maryland and its people. Thank you to everyone who has been part of my journey, and thank you to everyone who has helped further the legacy of the Knott Foundation!
The mission, values, and work of the Knott Foundation are truly admirable, and it has been a privilege to serve this organization for so long. I look forward to meeting my successor and helping to facilitate a smooth transition. While I’ll be stepping down as Executive Director at the end of this year, I’ve offered to support the Foundation in a part-time capacity through the start of 2023, in order to assist with the transition in every way I can.
As for me, I’ll be redesigning my professional commitments in light of my current family needs. I hope to find ways to continue the purposeful and service-driven work that I’ve found so fulfilling at Knott, and to cross paths with all of you again soon.
Once more, thank you to my incredible staff, my amazing Board, our entire grantee community, and my fellow colleagues in philanthropy – all of you have made the last decade of my professional life rewarding in so many ways.
Warmest personal regards,
Kelly C. Medinger
Executive Director
The Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Foundation
By Kathleen McCarthy
10-11-2022
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education and human services
We are pleased to announce that 15 organizations received over $870,000 in our October grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- St. Paul Catholic Church: $24,300 to support a roof replacement at this Catholic parish founded 184 years ago in Ellicott City
Education
- Baltimore SquashWise: $78,500 to support the renovation of the historic Greyhound bus terminal into the future permanent home of this Baltimore-based organization, which aims to create opportunities for youth to realize their academic, athletic, and personal potential through the sport of squash
- Boys Hope Girls Hope of Baltimore: $50,000 to support general operating expenses at this residential program serving academically motivated middle and high school students, helping them to become well-educated and prepared for college, careers, and life
- Jemicy School: $78,500 to support technology upgrades at this independent school in Owings Mills serving students in grades 1-12 with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences
- Our Lady of Hope/St. Luke School: $80,450 to support technology upgrades at this PreK-8 Catholic school in Dundalk
- Parks & People: $45,000 to support the Branches Workforce Development Program, an afterschool internship and summer job program for Baltimore City high school students
- Resurrection-St. Paul School: $85,000 to support technology upgrades at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Ellicott City
- St. Ursula School: $79,250 to support technology upgrades at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Parkville
Human Services
- Associated Catholic Charities: $120,000 to support the creation of an Intergenerational Center to serve as a community hub of Catholic Charities programs and partnerships in West Baltimore
- Associated Charities of Cumberland: $20,000 to support general operating expenses at this organization, which provides emergency support services to individuals and families in Allegany County
- Family Crisis Center of Baltimore County: $25,000 to support safety and security enhancements to the Center’s Emergency Safety Shelter, the only permanent emergency safe shelter for adult and child victims of dometic violence in Baltimore County
- Franciscan Center: $75,000 to support renovations to the Outreach Intake Area and other offices at this organization, which provides emergency assistance and supportive services to economically disadvantaged people in Baltimore City
- Maryland Nonprofits: $45,000 to support general operating expenses at the Maryland Association of Resources for Families & Youth (MARFY), which is a network of child welfare providers working to improve the system of foster care in Maryland
- Project JumpStart: $50,000 to support general operating expenses at the East Baltimore training center, which delivers a pre-apprenticeship training program in construction to Baltimore City residents
- Taking the Lead: $15,000 to support enhancements to the indoor riding arena at this organization providing therapeutic horseback riding for veterans, adults, and children with disabilities in northern Baltimore County
By Kelly Medinger
07-05-2022
Announcing Carol’s retirement and Christina’s arrival
Our longtime Executive Manager, Carol Hoffman, retired this summer after 28 years of service to the Knott Foundation, and nearly 50 years with the Knott family! Carol has been a familiar face at the Foundation’s office for decades, always leading with kindness and grace. We are excited for her to enjoy this next phase of her life, and we thank her for her many contributions to the Foundation over the years. She will be dearly missed!
In May, Christina Rickman joined our team as Carol’s replacement. Aware that she has big shoes to fill, Christina is excited to bring her accounting and non-profit administration experience and passion for philanthropy to her role as Business Manager. Previous to joining the Knott Foundation, Christina served as the Accounting Manager at Baltimore Lab School. She regularly volunteers with Blue Water Baltimore to build parks and plant trees in low-income neighborhoods across Baltimore City.
Christina holds a Masters of Business Administration from University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. Originally from Towson, she now lives in Hampden and enjoys reading, hiking with her dog, and trying new restaurants.
Our best wishes to Carol (pictured standing left), and our warmest welcome to Christina (pictured sitting right)!
By Kathleen McCarthy
06-21-2022
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care and human services
We are pleased to announce that 19 organizations received over $925,000 in our June grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
Education
- Baltimore Lab School: $15,000 to support playground renovations at this nonpublic school in Baltimore City, which educates and supports children with learning differences in grades 1 – 12
- Bishop Walsh School: $90,000 to support technology upgrades at this K – 12 Catholic school in Cumberland
- First Tee - Greater Baltimore: $40,000 to support the ACE Scholars Program, an intensive study program combining golf, academic supports, and character education, for high school youth in the Baltimore area
- Immaculate Heart of Mary School: $89,500 to support electrical upgrades and air conditioning units at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Towson
- Irvine Nature Center: $15,000 to support nature-based educational opportunities for students attending selected Catholic schools in Baltimore City
- Junior Achievement of Central Maryland: $50,000 to support the delivery of JA’s flagship economic education programming – JA BizTown and JA Finance Park – to students attending Catholic elementary and middle schools throughout the Archdiocese of Baltimore
- LET’S GO Boys and Girls, Inc: $45,000 to support the general operations of this organization providing STEM education and workforce development opportunities to youth in Baltimore City with the goal of breaking the cycle of generational poverty
- Mount Saint Mary’s University: $60,000 to support the purchase of equipment for the environmental sciences program, at this private liberal arts Catholic university in Emmitsburg
- Notre Dame Preparatory School: $50,000 to support outdoor lighting enhancements designed to improve athletic field access and security at this Catholic, independent school for girls in grades 6 – 12 in Towson
- Sisters Academy Baltimore: $50,000 to support management consulting as this independent, tuition-free Catholic middle school for girls in grades 5 – 8 in southwest Baltimore
- St. John Regional Catholic School: $80,000 to support technology upgrades at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Frederick
- Trinity School: $70,000 to support technology upgrades at this pre-K – 8 independent Catholic school in Ellicott City
Health Care
- Mission of Mercy: $50,000 to support the general operations of this community-based health clinic providing free medical and dental care to patients in Frederick, Carroll and Baltimore Counties
- Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital: $25,000 to support the Trauma and Healing Program, which provides mental health assessments, treatment, and consultation services to children and their families at this pediatric sub-acute hospital in Baltimore
- Shepherd’s Clinic: $30,000 to support the general operations of this holistic medical clinic, providing a medical home for the uninsured and underinsured living in and around the Coldstream Homestead and Montebello neighborhoods of Baltimore City
Human Services
- Pathfinders for Autism: $31,800 to support the creation of a new safety curriculum teaching teens and adults with ASD and law enforcement officers community safety skills and how to interact with each other
- Paul’s Place: $75,000 to support GroundWork Kitchen’s Culinary Arts Training Program, a social enterprise workforce development program in southwest Baltimore City
- Sexual Assault/Spouse Abuse Resource Center (SARC): $25,000 to support the second phase of the renovation and expansion of their facilities, at this organization serving women and children fleeing domestic violence in Harford County
By Kelly Medinger
03-15-2022
Rooted in Faith, Family & Community
I am pleased to announce the publication of our 2021 annual report.
“Rooted in faith, family, and community,” is the theme of our 2021 annual report.
Our mission to strengthen the community in concert with our identity as a Catholic family foundation resulted in a fruitful year in 2021, with over $2.3 million in grants being awarded to organizations in education, human services, Catholic activities, health care, and the arts & humanities. We hope you enjoy reading about our giving where we spotlight stories about our grants in our five program areas.
Thank you for your interest in the Knott Foundation as we nurture and celebrate our roots in faith, family, and community.
By Kathleen McCarthy
02-23-2022
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education and human services
We are pleased to announce that 17 organizations received over $850,000 in our February grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Shrine of the Little Flower: $40,000 to support restoration of the grand pipe organ, a significant component of this Catholic church’s culture of celebration and community in Baltimore City
- St. Michael the Archangel Church: $75,000 to support the restoration and repair of the stained glass windows in this 100+ year-old Catholic church in the Overlea-Fullerton neighborhood of Baltimore County
Education
- ¡Adelante Latina!: $20,000 to support alumnae and family outreach at this organization providing after-school and college access programming to promising Latina girls in grades 10 – 12 who attend Baltimore City high schools
- Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School: $50,000 to support outdoor experiential education programs and character development at three Catholic schools located in the Archdiocese of Baltimore
- Cristo Rey Jesuit High School: $50,000 to support a 1:1 technology program at this Catholic Jesuit high school in Baltimore City that combines college-preparatory education with corporate work experience
- Mercy High School: $120,000 to support HVAC upgrades at this Catholic, independent, all-girls high school located in Baltimore City
- Project Pneuma: $45,000 to support the expansion of this holistic after-school program providing academic and social-emotional support to young Black males in grades 4 – 8 in Baltimore City
- Saint John’s Catholic Prep: $95,000 to support the final phase of this Catholic, independent high school’s capital campaign and stadium project in Frederick County
- Sisters Circle: $50,000 to support the general operations of this long-term mentoring program serving at-risk girls from Baltimore City, starting in sixth grade through college and career
- St. Michael – St. Clement School: $65,000 to support technology upgrades at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in the Overlea-Fullerton neighborhood of Baltimore County
- Thread: $42,500 to support the general operations of this long-term mentoring program serving underperforming high school students in Baltimore City, providing them with a family of committed volunteer mentors and encouraging them to become self-motivated, resilient, and responsible citizens
Human Services
- Associated Catholic Charities, Samaritan Center: $40,000 to support My Sister’s Place Women’s Center’s housing program, called the Samaritan Center, and their efforts to provide clients in Baltimore City with direct financial assistance for rent, case management, and traveler's assistance to help build each client’s financial stability
- Baltimore Outreach Services: $10,000 to support the general operations of this emergency shelter serving women and children in Baltimore City
- Cornerstone Community Housing: $45,000 to support the general operations of Earl’s Place, a transitional housing program serving men recovering from substance abuse and homelessness in Baltimore City
- Marian House: $91,200 to support the renovation and construction of housing for women and their families experiencing homelessness and other instability as part of this holistically focused housing and supportive services organization in Baltimore City
- Religious Coalition for Emergency Human Needs: $40,000 to support the general operations of the new, permanent Emergency Family Shelter Program serving homeless families in Frederick County
- Women’s Housing Coalition: $15,000 to support the general operations of this organization that serves individuals and families experiencing homelessness by providing permanent, affordable housing and supportive services in Baltimore City
By Kathleen McCarthy
10-15-2021
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care and human services
We are pleased to announce that 15 organizations received over $800,000 in our October grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
Education
- Building STEPS: $35,000 to support the expansion of this STEM-focused program serving high-achieving high school students in Baltimore City
- Higher Achievement Baltimore: $50,000 to support salaries, laptops, and student transportation costs at this academic enrichment, out-of-school time program serving students in grades 5 – 8 in Baltimore City
- Maryvale Preparatory School: $100,200 to support technology upgrades at this Catholic, independent school in Lutherville serving girls in grades 6 – 12
- Notre Dame of Maryland University: $120,000 to support the renovation of The Knott Science Center, which is the primary home for all STEM disciplines, on the campus of this private, Catholic university in Baltimore
- One Love Foundation: $30,000 to support the expansion of their programming in Baltimore area Catholic schools, by educating more young people about healthy and unhealthy relationships
- Soccer Without Borders Maryland: $60,000 to support the general operations of this middle-grades out-of-school time program serving newcomer refugee and immigrant youth in Baltimore City and County
- St. Francis Neighborhood Center: $60,000 to support the general operations of the Power Project, an out-of-school time enrichment program serving youth ages 5 – 14 in the Reservoir Hill neighborhood of Baltimore City
- The Catholic High School of Baltimore: $110,000 to support the creation of a fitness and visitation center at this all-girls independent Catholic high school in Baltimore
Health Care
- Horizon Day Camp Baltimore: $32,000 to support bus transportation for children at this full-summer day camp in Baltimore for children with cancer and their siblings
Human Services
- Associated Builders & Contractors Craft Trust: $25,700 to support the creation of a flexible computer lab inside their new education building in Baltimore City to serve young adults in their construction trade apprenticeship program
- Baltimore Hunger Project: $12,500 to support technology purchases designed to improve the operational efficiency of this nonprofit dedicated to eliminating the problem of weekend childhood hunger in Baltimore City and County
- First Fruits Farm: $45,000 to support capital improvements that will enhance and expand the packaging and distribution capabilities of this nonprofit farm, located in Freeland, Maryland, dedicated to providing fresh, nutritious produce to those experiencing hunger in the region
- Hampden Family Center: $40,000 to support the expansion of case management and emergency services at this community hub offering educational and supportive services to families, children, youth, and senior citizens living in the Hampden neighborhood of Baltimore City
- House of Ruth Maryland: $41,000 to support operating costs associated with the clinical program, an essential piece of this nonprofit’s work to address intimate partner violence and provide comprehensive services to women and children so they may rebuild their lives safely and free of fear
By Kathleen McCarthy
06-18-2021
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care and human services
We are pleased to announce that 13 organizations received over $650,000 in our June grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
Education
- Calvert High College High School: $40,000 to support the Campus Ministry Program at this Catholic, college preparatory high school for boys located in Towson
- The John Carroll School: $30,000 to support upgrades to the robotics and physics lab at this Catholic, co-educational high school located in Bel Air
- Loyola University Maryland: $54,852 to support the creation of an outdoor Wi-Fi network benefitting the campus and neighboring community at this Catholic, Jesuit university located in Baltimore City
- Mother Seton Academy: $45,000 to support general operating costs of their Graduate Support Program at this Catholic, tuition-free middle school in Baltimore City
- Mother Seton School: $34,000 to support renovations to their computer lab at this independent Catholic school serving students in grades preK – 8 located in Emmitsburg
- Mount Saint Joseph High School: $58,000 to support technology equipment upgrades designed to enhance distance learning at this Catholic, college preparatory high school for boys located in Baltimore City
- Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School: $95,000 to renovate the Wellness & Performance Center at this Catholic, Archdiocesan school for students in grades preK – 12 located in Essex
- Sacred Heart School of Glyndon: $65,000 to support upgrades to their building automation system at Catholic, Archdiocesan school for students in grades preK – 8 located in Baltimore County
- St. Margaret School: $75,000 to support technology upgrades at this Catholic, Archdiocesan school for students in grades preK – 8 located in Harford County
Health Care
Human Services
- The Family Tree: $19,500 to support essential technology upgrades at the Baltimore City office of this organization dedicated to preventing child abuse by building safe, strong families
By Kelly Medinger
02-26-2021
Responding to the Needs of Today, Investing in the Promise of Tomorrow
I am pleased to announce the publication of our 2020 annual report.
Last year was a challenging one for the nonprofit sector. Our Annual Report helps catalog the new context brought about by the pandemic, as well as the Foundation’s response to help meet the needs of our community. We also highlight our giving through spotlight stories in our five program areas.
Our annual reports are a wonderful archival resource of the Foundation’s grantmaking activities, as well as a way to learn about the positive impact of some of our recent grants in education, human services, health care, arts & humanities, and Catholic activities. For a collection of our past annual reports click here.
Thank you for your continued interest in the Knott Foundation’s mission to strengthen the community.
By Kathleen McCarthy
02-24-2021
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education and human services
We are pleased to announce that 17 organizations received over $625,000 in our February grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Ignatian Volunteer Corps.: $25,500 to support the general operations of the Baltimore regional office, which pairs older adults with volunteer opportunities at local nonprofits and supports their work with Catholic spiritual reflection
- Jesuit Volunteer Corps: $25,000 to support the general operations of their Baltimore-based programming, which links young people committed to putting their faith in action with local nonprofits serving communities in need
Education
- 10:12 Sports: $10,000 to support this sports-based youth empowerment organization’s Mentor In Training Program (M.I.T.) serving teenage males in West Baltimore
- Dyslexia Tutoring Program: $40,000 to support the general operations of this organization, which provides free specialized tutoring services to low-income children and adults who are dyslexic or have a language-based learning disability
- Loyola Blakefield: $40,000 to support general operating costs at this Jesuit, college-preparatory school in Baltimore County serving boys in grades 6-12
- MERIT Health Leadership Academy: $35,000 to support the general operations of this Baltimore-based organization working to eliminate health care disparities by transforming underrepresented Baltimore City high school students into health care leaders
- Monsignor Slade Catholic School: $40,000 to support technoloy upgrades at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Glen Burnie
- Next One Up Foundation: $55,000 to support the general operations of this sports-oriented mentoring program working to transform the lives of young men in Baltimore City by advancing their academic, athletic, and social development
- Saint Ignatius Loyola Academy: $40,000 to support the general operations of this Jesuit, tuition-free middle school in Baltimore City serving boys in grades 5-8
Human Services
- Caroline Friess Center: $40,000 to support the general operations of this healthcare-based career and life skills program for unemployed and underemployed women in Baltimore City
- Community Assistance Network: $40,000 to support the general operations of this organization targeting the health, housing, and food needs of Baltimore County residents
- Govans Ecumenical Development Corporation (GEDCO): $40,000 to support the generation operations of this organization, which provides affordable housing, supportive services, and emergency assistance in Baltimore City
- Harford Family House: $40,000 to support and expand housing and supportive services to young adults age 18-24 in Harford County
- Living Classrooms Foundation: $40,000 to support the general operations of Project SERVE, a community service and job-training program for unemployed and disadvantaged adults in Baltimore City
- UEmpower of Maryland: $40,000 to support The Food Project, which combines culinary skills training, job opportunities, sustainable food sourcing, and mentorship to feed and empower neighborhoods in Southwest Baltimore
- Weekend Backpacks for Homeless Kids: $40,000 to support this organization’s expansion to provide more food to hungry and vulnerable Baltimore City youth
By Kathleen McCarthy
10-28-2020
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care and human services
We are pleased to announce that 18 organizations received over $700,000 in our October grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Sacred Heart Parish: $73,183 to support exterior capital improvements to this Catholic parish located in Glyndon, Maryland
- St. Bernardine Church: $75,000 to support mechanical upgrades to this Catholic parish located in the Edmondson Village neighborhood of Baltimore
Education
- Boys Hope Girls Hope of Baltimore: $50,000 to support general operating expenses at this residential program serving academically motivated middle and high school students, helping them to become well-educated and ready for college, careers, and life
- Highlands School: $35,000 to support general operating expenses related to their Executive Function initiative, a cornerstone program at this K – 12 school for students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other language-based learning differences located in Harford County
- Loyola Early Learning Center: $56,250 to support an academic support position at this Jesuit preschool serving students ages 2 – 5 located in Baltimore City
- Maryland Book Bank: $10,000 to support capital upgrades designed to improve the efficiency and safety of their facility and operations, where they distribute books to children, teachers and families in under-resourced neighborhoods in Baltimore
Health Care
- Pro Bono Counseling Project: $20,000 to support their Caring for Caregivers program, which offers no-cost professional counseling to people who are impacted by the financial and emotional stresses of caregiving for a family member
Human Services
- Dove Center (Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Resource Center): $43,264 to support a residential services position in their transitional housing units, at this organization located in Oakland, Maryland that assists adults and children who are victims of domestic violence overcome barriers and build skills to live independently and safely
- Franciscan Center: $55,000 to support the Dining Services Program, which feeds the hungry at this organization that has been providing emergency assistance and supportive outreach to residents in Baltimore City for over 50 years
- Manna House, Inc.: $85,000 to support capital construction costs associated with the expansion of their facility, where they have been serving meals and providing free services to Baltimore’s homeless and poor for over 50 years
- Tubman House, Baltimore(a project of Fusion Partnerships):$10,000 to support the Friend of a Friend program, which supports their urban garden and community food program in the Sandtown-Winchester neighborhood of Baltimore City
- Year Up Baltimore: $25,000 to support general operating expenses of this workforce development program that serves young adults in Baltimore ages 18 – 24 by helping them build technical skills development and gain access to internships
By Kelly Medinger
04-24-2020
Announcing our COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund grant recipients
The Knott Foundation’s mission is to strengthen the community, and now more than ever, our community needs us.
COVID-19's presence in Baltimore and beyond has been a sobering reality and significant challenge facing us all. We’re trying to feel our way through a situation that seemed unbelievable and is now the new normal. This has placed pressure on us to respond individually and as a community to address the health and economic concerns resulting from this uncertain new world.
The Foundation’s immediate response to this public health crisis and its ripple effect through the nonprofit industry has been to deploy our discretionary grant program as a rapid-response COVID-19 Emergency Fund. A select group of past grantees working on the front lines of food security and housing across Maryland each received a $5,000 grant to support their most urgent needs.
I am pleased to announce that 16 human service organizations received a total of $80,000 in grant support through this effort:
- Baltimore Hunger Project
- Community Assistance Network
- Franciscan Center
- Harford Community Action Agency
- Helping Up Mission
- Interfaith Services Coalition of Hancock
- Light House
- Manna House
- Marian House
- Maryland Center for Veterans Education and Training (MCVET)
- Meals on Wheels of Central Maryland
- Our Daily Bread Employment Center (a program of Catholic Charities of Baltimore)
- Religious Coalition for Emergency Human Needs
- St. Francis Neighborhood Center
- St. Mary’s Outreach Center
- St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore
Click here to review a list of these grants and their purpose found in our past awards database.
We applaud these organizations and all your efforts to respond to our growing community needs during this uncertain time. While there is currently no antidote for COVID-19, we believe respite may be found through compassion and collective action!
By Kelly Medinger
03-05-2020
Many Needs, One Purpose
I am pleased to announce the publication of our 2019 annual report.
"Many Needs, One Purpose" is the theme of our 2019 annual report. In 2019, we responded to the many needs in our community while maintaining one purpose: to honor our founders' legacy of generosity to strengthen our community.
Our annual reports are a wonderful archival resource of the Foundation's grantmaking activities, as well as a way to learn about the positive impact of some of our recent grants in education, human services, health care, arts & humanities, and Catholic activities. For a collection of our past annual reports click here.
I hope you enjoy reading our 2019 annual report and learning more about our mission and work!
By Kathleen McCarthy
02-14-2020
Announcing our fourth round of grants in our Building Opportunities in Out-of-School Time initiative
Kids need committed and caring adults to help them navigate life. Out-of-school time programs are a great avenue to build those relationships and help them realize their full potential. Yet an increasing number of low-income students are on the sidelines, and older youth in particular (those in middle and high school) often face the most complex barriers to participation.
Our BOOST initiative focuses on reaching these older youth. Our goal is to engage and retain them in comprehensive out-of-school time programs that promote enduring life skills. Recognizing there are many ways to do this, our strategy is all about relationships.
In our research and conversations with field experts, we learned a growing body of evidence suggests that a consistent relationship with a caring adult is the single most important ingredient to increasing the likelihood that a young person will flourish and become a productive adult.
Through our BOOST initiative, we would like to see organizations demonstrate significant depth, duration, and reach of informal and formal mentoring relationships between older youth and caring adults. With those measures, research says in the long-term these youth will experience improved educational outcomes and labor market success, improved decision-making capabilities, and beneficial effects on a number of other well-being variables – all of which point to our founders’ deep-seated value of education, opportunity, and hard work.
This year we are pleased to announce our fourth round of BOOST initiative funding.
BOOST Award Round IV:
- Sisters Circle: $169,000 grant over two years ($79,000/year one; $90,000/year two) to support the general operations of this organization, which offers long-term mentoring relationships for at-risk girls in Baltimore, empowering them to define success for themselves, make intentional decisions about their futures, and become self-sufficient young women
BOOST is a 5-year, $1 million initiative. Participation in our BOOST initiative is by invitation only. We look forward to sharing what we learn from this initiative over time.
For a complete description of the program, please visit our BOOST initiative webpage. And to read more about the Foundation’s journey to develop the BOOST initiative, click here.
By Kathleen McCarthy
02-13-2020
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in education and human services
We are pleased to announce that 9 organizations received over $400,000 in our February grant cycle.
Education
- Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center: $16,780 to support LIFE (Lead, Instruct, Fulfill, Experience), an outdoor experiential learning program for underserved youth in northern Baltimore County
- Junior Achievement of Central Maryland: $60,000 to support the purchase of furniture and fixtures for their new Youth Workforce and Innovation Center in Baltimore, which will house work-readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy programs for youth in grades K – 12
- Sisters Academy of Baltimore: $50,000 to support technology upgrades at this all-girls, tuition-free Catholic middle school in southwest Baltimore
- St. Elizabeth School: $66,686 to support facility improvements that will promote student safety and independence at this Catholic special needs school in Baltimore City
Human Services
- Associated Catholic Charities: $40,000 to support service enhancements at Christopher Place Employment Academy, an intensive residential recovery, education, training, and employment program for formerly homeless men in Baltimore City
- CASA of Baltimore County: $30,000 to support operating costs associated with a new staff position to serve older youth in foster care after they age out of the system
- St. Mary’s Outreach Center: $30,000 challenge grant to support the general operations and expansion of services at the Center, which improves the quality of life for older adults living in poverty in the greater Hampden community
By Kelly Medinger
11-19-2019
Taking a closer look at the multiple charitable vehicles established by our founders, Marion and Henry Knott, during their lifetimes, including the Knott Foundation and other funds
With the generosity of Marion and Henry Knott – and their large Catholic family that has only grown in size over the decades – many in Baltimore are familiar with the Knott name. What most don’t know, however, are the multiple structures for giving that our founders established long ago, as well as how those structures continue to support the community today.
A Family Foundation to Strengthen the Community
In 1977, Marion and Henry Knott established The Knott Foundation as a private family foundation in the State of Maryland. The vision of the Foundation is "to provide resources for nurturing and sustaining family unity through charitable activities in the Roman Catholic community and other deserving agencies that the Knott family encouraged and supported."
“Today, 40 years later, continuing the philanthropic legacy of my grandparents remains at the heart of our mission, as we strive to both improve our community and strengthen our family,” states Lindsay Gallagher, Board President.
The Foundation is a multi-generational philanthropic family enterprise, with 34 Trustees representing 3 generations and 8 branches of the Knott family. All of the Foundation’s Trustees are involved in making grants that help strengthen communities in central and western Maryland. The median grant to an organization is around $50,000, and program areas include education, human services, health care, Catholic activities, and the arts. You can learn more about the Foundation here: www.knottfoundation.org.
A Trust to Benefit Catholic Charities
The Henry J. and Marion I. Knott Catholic Community Fund (est. 1971), is a trust governed by Catholic Charities of Maryland (the Agency). The Fund is overseen by a committee of the Agency’s leadership and a Knott family member. Currently, the Fund provides approximately $250,000 per yearfor the Agency’s key priorities and organizational funding needs. Most recently, the Fund has been dedicated to helping the Agency with technology upgrades.
“Producing life-improving outcomes for those we serve and being accountable to our benefactors requires that we keep pace with the ever-evolving technological world,” comments Bill McCarthy, Executive Director of Catholic Charities. To that end, the Fund’s annual support has allowed Catholic Charities to refresh its technology – including providing staff with laptops and Chromebooks, and helping to implement an electronic health records system for their many programs serving children and families.
“We are grateful for the ongoing financial support from this fund and the thoughtful involvement of family members who guide our stewardship of this valuable resource,” concludes McCarthy.
A Trust to Support Other Catholic Institutions
In 1975, the RCA Trust (Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Baltimore Trust) was established as a trust that supports certain Catholic organizations including the Archdiocese of Baltimore, Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU), and the University of Notre Dame in Indiana.
Lump sums were paid out to each beneficiary organization at the beginning of the life of the trust. From those payments, the Archdiocese of Baltimore directed $1 million to Catholic Charities’ Our Daily Bread campaign and $1 million to the Baltimore Basilica’s Restore the Light renovation campaign. NDMU dedicated $2 million to create the Marion Burk Knott Athletic Center, which remains a focal point for athletics, fitness, and a variety of other student services on the college’s campus. And the University of Notre Dame built Marion Burk Knott Hall, the first residence hall on campus named for a woman.
“This Trust is a wonderful example of the leadership and philanthropic spirit we have been blessed with in the Archdiocese of Baltimore,” States John Matera, Chief Financial Officer of the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Today, the Archdiocese and NDMU continue to receive annual proceeds from the Trust, beyond the initial payments outlined above. Each organization receives approximately $100,000 per year.
The Archdiocese uses this annual income to support The Basilica of the Assumption Historic Trust. Since 2003, a large proportion of this money has been used to support renovations and maintenance of the Basilica’s grounds. More recently, the funds have been allocated to support the Basilica’s programming as a City parish.
“What the endowment allows us to do is huge,” comments Rev. James Boric, Pastor of the Basilica. “It has afforded us the ability to create a tailor-made missionary program to evangelize Baltimore and help the homeless and addicted on our streets. The Knott Endowment has allowed us the freedom and the room to re-invent the Basilica into something more than just a historic building. It has allowed us to become a parish that is meeting the needs of our Church and our City in 2019.”
Father Boric cites the fact that the Basilica has women discerning religious life, a young man discerning priesthood, and between 25-50 young professionals coming to Adoration every Thursday as signs of success of their evangelization work supported by the RCA/Knott Trust. “This is the fruit of a lot of things—but certainly the Knott Endowment is a part of that,” he remarks.
Meanwhile, NDMU uses ongoing annual contributions from the Trust to support student financial aid and institutional operations. “Notre Dame today is blessed to provide as much as $10 million in financial aid and scholarship resources to worthy students each year,” shares Carroll David Galvin, Interim Associate Vice President for Development and Director of Corporate, Foundation & Government Grants. “Most recently, 51% of students in the undergraduate Women’s College are recipients of federal Pell-grants, awarded to those students showing the highest levels of financial need. Funds from the Knott Trust help support aid to this population, and others, on our campus,” he confirms.
Scholarship Funds to Help Catholic Students
The Marion Burk Knott Scholarship Fund (est. 1980) and the Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Scholarship Fund (est. 1988) together operate as the Knott Scholarship Funds. The assets of these two funds total approximately $100 million. The Knott’s vision for these scholarships was to create a future for Maryland that is supported and steered by a community that puts into action the values and beliefs of the Catholic faith.
The Knott Scholarship Funds award scholarships to academically talented Catholic students who wish to continue their education in a Catholic school within the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Full-tuition scholarships are awarded to elementary students (grades 5-8) and high school students attending a Catholic school. College scholarships are available at the three Catholic Colleges in Maryland: Loyola University Maryland, Mount St. Mary’s University, and Notre Dame of Maryland University.
To date, nearly $60 million in scholarship awards have benefited some 1,500 students in elementary school, high school, and college. With a rich history spanning 38 years, the Scholarship Funds has produced some heartwarming results: over 64 siblings have been awarded scholarships; a mother/son are both scholarship winners; and there have even been two marriages between Knott Scholars. You can learn more about the Knott Scholarship Funds here: http://knottscholar.info/
Matt Smolka (Loyola Blakefield '20) and Katie Smolka (School of the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen '21) are a brother and sister who have both benefited from Knott Scholarships.
“I felt very honored to be named a Knott scholar considering the great legacy of the scholarship program,” shares Matt. “I know that my parents and I very much appreciate the generous contribution of the Knott family for their financial support, especially with two kids to send to college, so it’s an incredible gift from an incredible foundation.”
“Together, the community of Knott Scholars demonstrate an outstanding academic record, as well as the promise to fulfill our founders vision: that they will use their intellectual abilities to serve others,” reflects Michelle Burke, Director of the Knott Scholarship Funds.
Adds Jim Sellinger, Chancellor of Education for the Archdiocese of Baltimore: “The Knott Scholarship Fund has recognized outstanding student performance and has reinforced the importance of Catholic education provided by the Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholic schools for close to four decades. The students who attend our Archdiocesan Catholic schools are blessed to have the Knott Scholarship Fund recognize their academic excellence in the classroom with full scholarships.”
Conclusion
Together, the legacy of charitable vehicles that Marion and Henry Knott created to benefit the community total more than $150 million. All of these resources create a picture of the causes that our founders cared about and their commitment to students, families, schools, churches, and charities within the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Martin Knott, a Charter Trustee of the Knott Foundation, sums it up like this: “My parents believed in doing good work while they were here, but more importantly, leaving a legacy when they were gone. So what they did is set up a structure that builds a work ethic in the next generation, and an understanding that you have to help other people. The funds they created during their lifetimes have perpetual meaning – in addition to their family, they are a lasting legacy of their morals and values.”
By Kathleen McCarthy
10-21-2019
Announcing our most recent recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care and human services
We are pleased to announce that 14 organizations received nearly $650,000 in our October grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Monsignor O’Dwyer Retreat House: $75,000 to support the construction of an outdoor worship space at this Catholic youth retreat facility in Baltimore County
- Oblate Sisters of Providence: $100,000 challenge grant to support roof repairs to the Motherhouse of this Catholic religious order for women located in Baltimore County
Education
- Cristo Rey Jesuit High School: $46,000 to support technology upgrades at this Jesuit high school in Baltimore City that provides college-preparatory education coupled with corporate work experience
- Irvine Nature Center: $15,000 to support environmental education and leadership development programming for students at two Catholic schools in Baltimore City
- Soccer Without Borders: $40,000 to support this out-of-school time program using soccer as a vehicle for positive change for newcomer refugee students in middle and high school in Baltimore City and County
- St. Frances Academy: $75,000 to support capital renovations at this 190-year-old, historically African-American Catholic high school in Baltimore City
- St. Maria Goretti High School: $58,788 to support the launch of Project Lead the Way: Introduction to Engineering at this Catholic high school in Hagerstown
- St. Thomas More Academy: $40,000 to support the More Readers Initiative providing supports to students with learning differences at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Frederick County
- The Community School: $25,000 to support the expansion of teaching faculty at this academic and mentoring high school located in the Remington community of Baltimore City
Health Care
- Gilchrist Hospice Care: $25,000 to support construction of the new Gilchrist Center Baltimore at Stadium Place, to serve adults and children in Baltimore City who have reached their end of life stage
- The Hearing and Speech Agency: $15,000 to support the charitable care fund, which helps make clinical audiology, speech-language pathology, and occupational therapy services available to all, regardless of income
Human Services
- Athletes Serving Athletes: $40,000 to support the expansion of services through volunteer recruitment at this organization working to elevate the quality of life for individuals with limited mobility by empowering them to train for and participate in running events at no cost
- Cornerstone Community Housing (formerly United Ministries): $50,000 to support the general operations of Earl’s Place, a recovery-based transitional housing program for men experiences homelessness in Baltimore City
- Pathfinders for Autism: $30,000 to support the launch of a pilot program focused on creating recreational opportunities for adults with autsim
By Kathleen McCarthy
06-19-2019
Announcing our most recent recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care and human services
We are pleased to announce that 15 organizations received over $750,000 in our June grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
Education
- Archbishop Spalding High School: $100,000 to support the acquisition of furniture and equipment for the new Innovation Center at this Catholic high school in Anne Arundel County
- Baltimore Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound: $40,000 to support outdoor experiential education programs and character development for two Catholic girls schools in Baltimore City, Sisters Academy and Mercy High School
- Resurrection-St. Paul School: $70,000 to support technology upgrades and laboratory furniture/fixtures at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Ellicott City
- Saint Casimir Catholic School: $75,000 to support technology upgrades at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in the Canton neighborhood of Baltimore City
- St. Francis of Assisi School: $75,000 to support the creation of a Wellness Center and STEM Lab/Maker Space at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Northeast Baltimore City
- Strong City Baltimore: $35,000 to support The Club at Collington Square, an after-school and summer program serving youth in East Baltimore
- The First Tee of Greater Baltimore: $25,000 to support the College Bound Project for high school youth in this out-of-school time program that combines golf and character education
Health Care
- Shepherd’s Clinic: $43,318 to support salary costs at this free, integrative health care clinic in Baltimore City
Human Services
- Baltimore Hunger Project: $12,500 to support the delivery of weekend food packages to 50 more students in Baltimore City and County
- Enoch Pratt Free Library: $15,000 to support the Library’s Mobile Job Center, which serves job seekers throughout Baltimore City
- Santa’s Helpers Anonymous: $10,000 to support the purchasing of toys for distribution to Baltimore area families in need at Christmastime
- Paul’s Place: $80,000 to support the construction of Groundwork Kitchen, including a new culinary arts training program, restaurant, and catering business, at this social service agency in the Pigtown neighborhood of Baltimore City
- The Light House: $18,000 to support a workforce development program in the trades industry at this homeless service organization in downtown Annapolis
By Kelly Medinger
03-13-2019
Reflecting on the continued growth and vibrancy the Knott family brings to the Foundation’s work
When people say, “Tell me about the Knott Foundation,” I often answer that we are a Catholic family foundation with a capital F-A-M-I-L-Y.
The Knott family is 250 members strong – all direct descendants of our founders, and spouses of those descendants.
Thirty-four of those members have gone through our rigorous training program and now sit on the Knott Foundation’s Board of Trustees. Two more members are going through our training program right now. Together, our Trustees represent the second, third, and fourth generations of Marion and Henry Knott’s lineage, and 9 discrete family branches from the Knotts’ original 13 children.
I learned in a webinar recently that most family foundations don’t make it past the third generation. Perhaps the foundation is unable to attract younger family members, or perhaps differing viewpoints piece the philanthropy into multiple vehicles, each with its own set of priorities. Nevertheless, the foundation ceases to exist in its original form.
The Knott Foundation bucks this trend. Last year we added four younger family members to our Board of Trustees and elected the largest Board in the Foundation’s history.
Letters from some of these newest (and youngest) members reveal their motivation for joining our work – primarily, an interest in the core values of the Foundation and our grantmaking in the community. Here are excerpts from some of those letters:
- “I have reflected on the fundamental morals and characteristics that my great grandparents had, including generosity, compassion for others and perseverance. I am ready to continue the Knott tradition, by engaging more in charitable work, learning about the grant process, and helping to give to those in need.”
- “I am interested in joining the board to explore the charity work, the grants, and the ideals that the Foundation holds… Grandpop and Grandmom Knott instilled in their children that family, faith, and charity are all extremely important in life, and this has been passed down from generation to generation. I am incredibly lucky that my family is as close as we are, and I think that this all stems from Grandpop and Grandmom Knott.”
- “I would be humbled with the opportunity to give back to community and help amazing organizations that are performing incredible work around the greater Baltimore area and throughout Maryland by being a part of the Knott Foundation. I look forward to joining and continuing the philanthropic work that helps great organizations succeed and thrive.”
Spring is a season for growth and renewal. In that vein, I am happy to reflect on the continued growth and vibrancy the Knott family brings to our work as a philanthropic venture dedicated to strengthening communities in central and western Maryland.
Truly, we are a Catholic family foundation with a capital F-A-M-I-L-Y!
By Kelly Medinger
03-04-2019
Building the Foundation for Stronger Communities
I am pleased to announce the publication of our 2018 annual report.
“Building the Foundation for Stronger Communities” is the theme of our 2018 annual report. Through this theme, we embrace our dual purpose to strengthen the community and nurture and sustain family unity. We also mark a significant milestone, having recently elected the largest Board in the history of the Foundation – 34 family members dedicated to our legacy and work.
Our annual reports are a wonderful archival resource of the Foundation’s grantmaking activities, as well as a way to learn about the positive impact of some of our recent grants in education, human services, health care, arts & humanities, and Catholic activities. For a collection of our past annual reports click here.
I hope you enjoy reading our 2018 annual report and learning more about the Knott Foundation’s mission to strengthen the community.
By Kathleen McCarthy
02-15-2019
Announcing our most recent recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 12 organizations received over $750,000 in our February grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Christ the King Catholic Church: $35,000 to support the acquisition of furniture and equipment for the new Parish Hall and Classroom Building at this Towson parish
- St. Philip Neri Roman Catholic Church: $85,000 to support the construction of a masonry ramp designed to provide ADA access for the church and school community at this parish in Linthicum Heights
Education
- Dyslexia Tutoring Program: $55,000 to support the general operations of this specialized tutoring program that provides services free-of-charge to low-income children and adults with language-based learning differences
- Our Lady of Victory School: $70,000 to support a Chromebook initiative and other technology upgrades at this preK-8 Catholic school in Baltimore City
- South Baltimore Learning Center: $47,306 to support technology upgrades designed to enhance instruction for adult learners who are earning their GED or advancing their workforce skills
- St. John Westminster: $85,000 to support a Chromebook initiative and other technology upgrades at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Carroll County
- The Catholic High School of Baltimore: $120,000 to support the construction of a new driveway and parking area to provide a safer place to drop-off and pick-up students at this all-girls Catholic high school in Baltimore City
Health Care
Human Services
- Associated Catholic Charities: $25,000 to support consulting and staff training around delivering person-centered and community-based care and workforce supports for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Gallagher Services
By Kelly Medinger
02-15-2019
Announcing our third round of grants in our Building Opportunities in Out-of-School Time initiative
Kids need committed and caring adults to help them navigate life. Out-of-school time programs are a great avenue to build those relationships and help them realize their full potential. Yet an increasing number of low-income students are on the sidelines, and older youth in particular (those in middle and high school) often face the most complex barriers to participation.
Our BOOST initiative focuses on reaching these older youth. Our goal is to engage and retain them in comprehensive out-of-school time programs that promote enduring life skills. Recognizing there are many ways to do this, our strategy is all about relationships.
In our research and conversations with field experts, we learned a growing body of evidence suggests that a consistent relationship with a caring adult is the single most important ingredient to increasing the likelihood that a young person will flourish and become a productive adult.
Through our BOOST initiative, we would like to see organizations demonstrate significant depth, duration, and reach of informal and formal mentoring relationships between older youth and caring adults. With those measures, research says in the long-term these youth will experience improved educational outcomes and labor market success, improved decision-making capabilities, and beneficial effects on a number of other well-being variables – all of which point to our founders’ deep-seated value of education, opportunity, and hard work.
This year we are pleased to announce our third round of BOOST initiative grants, totaling $233,000 to two organizations in Baltimore.
BOOST Awards: Round III
- Next One Up: $128,000 grant over two years ($64,000/year) to support the general operations of this organization, which aims to transform the lives of young men in Baltimore City by supporting and advancing their academic, athletic, and social development
- Thread: $105,000 grant over three years ($35,000/year) to support salary expenses of this organization, which engages underperforming high school students in Baltimore City, provides them with a family of committed volunteer mentors, and encourages them to become self-motivated, resilient, and responsible citizens
BOOST is a 5-year, $1 million initiative. Participation in our BOOST initiative is by invitation only. We look forward to sharing what we learn from this initiative over time.
For a complete description of the program, please visit our BOOST initiative webpage. And to read more about the Foundation’s journey to develop the BOOST initiative, click here.
By Kathleen McCarthy
10-15-2018
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 19 organizations received over $860,000 in our October grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- The Catholic Community of South Baltimore: $85,000 to support the replacement of the boiler system at Holy Cross Church located in the Federal Hill neighborhood of Baltimore City
- Jesuit Volunteer Corps: $20,000 to support the recruitment, training and on-going work of five Baltimore-based Jesuit Volunteers committed to serving the poor and marginalized
- Saint Clare Parish: $25,850 to support the renovation of this Catholic church’s convent in Essex for use as housing for the Operation TEACH program, a post-graduate service program for teachers in Catholic schools
- St. Mark Roman Catholic Church: $45,000 to support the Faith is Cool Capital Campaign to replace the HVAC system at this Catholic Church located in Harford County
Education
- Acts4Youth: $45,000 to support the expansion of this comprehensive mentoring program for youth into Cardinal Shehan School, a Catholic K-8 school in Baltimore City
- Mercy High School: $125,000 to support the construction of a new turf field complex at this all-girls Catholic high school in Baltimore City
- Mount Saint Joseph High School: $88,630 to support campus-wide technology upgrades at this all-boys Catholic high school in Baltimore City
Health Care
- St. Joseph’s Nursing Home: $100,000 to support the roof replacement at this 44-bed nursing home in Catonsville run by the Congregation of the Sisters Servants of Mary Immaculate
Human Services
- Arc Baltimore: $25,000 to support the expansion of the Career Catalyst program, which helps individuals with disabilities find competitive wage employment that aligns with their interests
- Associated Catholic Charities: $50,000 to support ESOL programming (English for Speakers of Other Languages) for immigrant children and adults at the Esperanza Center in Baltimore City
- Associated Charities of Cumberland: $12,000 to support the general operating costs of this organization dedicated to promoting a healthy and housed community in Cumberland
- CASA of Baltimore: $19,760 to support the fundraising capacity of this organization, which deploys trained volunteers to speak up for the best interests of foster children in Baltimore City’s Juvenile Court
- Community Assistance Network, Inc.: $10,000 to support the general operating costs of this outreach services organization serving Baltimore County’s low-income residents
- Govans Ecumenical Development Corporation (GEDCO): $40,000 to support mental health treatment for residents at GEDCO’s Harford and Micah Houses, which provide permanent supportive housing for men and women in Baltimore City who were previously homeless
- Harford Community Action Agency: $24,348 to support one year of maintenance and operations of a refrigerated truck delivering approximately 55,000 pounds of food per month to those experiencing food insecurity in Harford County
- Itineris: $36,000 to support the acquisition of technology hardware and software to enable this organization serving adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Baltimore improve their data tracking and service delivery for clients
- Living Classrooms Foundation: $50,000 to support Project SERVE, a job-training program serving Baltimore City adults returning to the community from incarceration
- The Religious Coalition for Emergency Human Needs: $50,000 to support the Emergency Family Shelter Program, which provides housing and supportive services to approximately 40 families in Frederick County each year
- Women’s Housing Coalition: $15,000 to support general operating costs for this supportive housing program in Baltimore City that serves formerly homeless women and children
By Kelly Medinger
06-30-2018
Announcing our $1 million grant to support urban Catholic education in Baltimore
Our Board of Trustees has awarded a $1 million grant to the Archdiocese of Baltimore, payable over three years, for the construction of a new Catholic school on the westside of Baltimore City.
This marks the first new school the Archdiocese has built in Baltimore in 57 years. The school will serve students in grades pre-K – 8 and will advance the educational mission of the Church to provide young people a pathway to a better life grounded in virtue and faith.
“This is an important project for the Archdiocese and an important project for the City.” shares our President, Patrick Rodgers. “As longtime supporters of Catholic education, it’s something that the Knott Foundation is also pleased to support.”
Our founders, Marion and Henry Knott, were devout Catholics, and the Foundation has honored their faith by prioritizing our giving to Catholic organizations, including schools. In the past five years, the Foundation has awarded approximately $4.5 million to more than 55 independent and archdiocesan Catholic schools.
“This singular grant of $1 million represents an extraordinary commitment for the Foundation,” states Patrick. “We believe in Catholic education, we believe in Baltimore City, and we look forward to the opening of the new school.”
By Kathleen McCarthy
06-19-2018
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in arts & humanities, Catholic activities, education, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 14 organizations received over $850,000 in our June grant cycle.
Arts & Humanities
- B&O Railroad Museum: $74,263 to support capital costs associated with the First Mile Stable Project, designed to create a permanent home for the nation’s oldest continuously operating police mounted unit as well as educational, programming and community space for the Museum
Catholic Activities
Education
- Bishop Walsh School: $50,000 to support general operations of the Advancement Office and major gifts campaign at this pre-K-12 Catholic school in Cumberland
- Institute of Notre Dame: $70,000 to support staffing and other costs associated with the development of a facilities Master Plan at this all-girls Catholic high school in Baltimore City
- Loyola Early Learning Center: $50,000 to support the development office operations of this Jesuit early childhood education program in Baltimore City
- Mother Seton Academy: $100,000 to support the capital campaign to expand the facilities at this co-ed, tuition-free Catholic middle school in Baltimore City
- Sacred Heart School of Glyndon: $76,000 to support technology enhancements in grades 4 through 8 at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Baltimore County
- St. Mary Catholic School: $100,000 to support the construction of a gymnasium at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Hagerstown
Human Services
- Caroline Center: $50,000 to support the general operations of this Catholic, tuition-free employment training program in Baltimore City for women in health care
- Churches for Streets of Hope: $12,000 to support the expansion of case management services at this community-based homeless services organization serving Southeast Baltimore County
- Helping Up Mission: $50,000 to support general operating costs associated with the education and workforce development program for homeless, poor, and addicted men in Baltimore City
- Interfaith Service Coalition of Hancock, MD, Inc.: $60,000 to support the renovation of Martha’s House, a youth center and summer feeding site, as part of the organization’s larger mission to assist families and individuals in need in Hancock
- Manna House: $50,000 to support general operating costs of this drop-in center that feeds and supports up to 200 men and women a day who are living in need in Baltimore City
- St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore: $65,000 to support the installation of a new HVAC system at the Pimlico Head Start site, one of many program sites at this 150-year old community service provider in Baltimore
By Kelly Medinger
03-08-2018
Celebrating 40 Years of Giving
I am pleased to announce the publication of our 2017 annual report.
Our 2017 annual report celebrates the Knott Foundation’s 40th anniversary year, marking four decades of giving to organizations strengthening communities in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. To commemorate this milestone, we also released a short film last year about the history and mission of the Foundation. You can watch it here.
Our annual reports are a wonderful archival resource of the Foundation’s grantmaking activities, as well as a way to learn about the positive impact of some of our recent grants in education, human services, health care, arts & humanities, and Catholic activities. For a collection of our past annual reports click here.
I hope you enjoy reading our 2017 annual report and learning more about the Knott Foundation’s mission to strengthen the community.
By Kathleen McCarthy
02-23-2018
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 10 organizations received over $750,000 in our February grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Ignatian Volunteer Corps.: $30,000 to support general operating costs for the Baltimore regional office, which pairs older adults with volunteer opportunities at area nonprofits and supports their work through Catholic spiritual reflection
Education
- Mount de Sales Academy: $116,477 to support classroom renovations at this Catholic, all-girls high school in Catonsville
- Our Lady of Mount Carmel School: $105,000 to support technology upgrades at this Catholic, co-ed pre-K – 12 school in Essex
- Saint Margaret School: $100,000 to support the upgrade and replacement of the heating and air conditioning system at this Catholic, pre-K – 8 school in Bel Air
- St. Jane Frances School: $75,000 to support technology upgrades at this Catholic, pre-K – 8 school in Pasadena
Health Care
- Mission of Mercy: $100,000 to support the purchase of a mobile dental van to provide free dental care to patients in need in Baltimore, Carroll, and Frederick Counties
Human Services
- Associated Catholic Charities, Inc.: $40,000 to support the implementation of a trauma-informed care model for children at St. Vincent’s Villa, a comprehensive residential facility for children ages 5-14 whose behavioral and emotional needs have not responded to community-based interventions
- At Jacob's Well, Inc.: $100,000 to support operating and capital needs at this organization providing housing and wrap-around services to the mentally ill homeless in Baltimore City
- Baltimore Child Abuse Center, Inc.: $50,000 to support the grants management capacity of this organization providing training and services in Baltimore City to keep kids safe
- Women's Care Center of Maryland Incorporated: $60,000 to support salaries and supplies at this pregnancy resource center in Baltimore County
By Kelly Medinger
02-23-2018
Announcing our second round of grant recipients in our Building Opportunities in Out-of-School Time initiative
Kids need committed and caring adults to help them navigate life. Out-of-school time programs are a great avenue to build those relationships and help them realize their full potential. Yet an increasing number of low-income students are on the sidelines, and older youth in particular (those in middle and high school) often face the most complex barriers to participation.
Our BOOST initiative focuses on reaching these older youth. Our goal is to engage and retain them in comprehensive out-of-school time programs that promote enduring life skills. Recognizing there are many ways to do this, our strategy is all about relationships.
In our research and conversations with field experts, we learned a growing body of evidence suggests that a consistent relationship with a caring adult is the single most important ingredient to increasing the likelihood that a young person will flourish and become a productive adult.
Through our BOOST initiative, we would like to see organizations demonstrate significant depth, duration, and reach of informal and formal mentoring relationships between older youth and caring adults. With those measures, research says in the long-term these youth will experience improved educational outcomes and labor market success, improved decision-making capabilities, and beneficial effects on a number of other well-being variables – all of which point to our founders’ deep-seated value of education, opportunity, and hard work.
This year we are pleased to announce our second round of BOOST initiative grants, totaling $198,000 to two organizations in Baltimore.
BOOST Awards: Round II
- Baltimore SquashWise: $90,000 grant over two years ($45,000/year) to support the general operations of this organization, which aims to create opportunities for students to realize their academic, athletic and personal potential through the sport of squash
- SAFE CENTER (Safe Alternative Foundation for Education, Inc.): $108,000 grant over three years ($35,000/year one; $36,000/year two; $37,000/year three) to support salary expenses of this organization, which seeks to inform and encourage Baltimore City youth of the importance of obtaining an education and creating an adaptable life plan
BOOST is a 5-year, $1 million initiative. Participation is by invitation only. We look forward to sharing what we learn from this initiative over time.
For a complete description of the program, please visit our BOOST initiative webpage. And to read more about the Foundation’s journey to develop the BOOST initiative, click here.
By Kathleen McCarthy
10-13-2017
Announcing our most recent recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care and human services
We are pleased to announce that 12 organizations received over $900,000 in our October grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Our Lady Queen of Peace Church: $60,000 to support the renovation and repair of the stained glass windows at this Catholic church located in Middle River
Education
- Calvert Hall College High School: $107,000 to support theatre stage lighting upgrades in the Marion Burk Knott Center for Performing Arts at this Catholic, college preparatory high school for boys located in Towson
- Irvine Nature Center: $17,000 to support an environmental education program for students at Cristo Rey Jesuit High School and St. Ignatius Loyola Academy
- Notre Dame Preparatory School: $80,000 to support auditorium lighting upgrades at this Catholic, college preparatory school in Towson serving girls in grades 6 – 12
- Parks & People Foundation, Inc.: $50,000 to support the Branches environmental education and youth leadership internship program for middle and high school students in Baltimore City
- St. Francis Neighborhood Center: $128,147 to support the Count on Me capital campaign for the expansion of this longstanding community center located in the Reservoir Hill neighborhood of Baltimore City
Heatlh Care
- MedStar Good Samaritan Hospital: $50,000 to support equipment purchases for the hospital’s Center for Successful Aging, which provides comprehensive geriatric services to patients ages 65 and older
Human Services
- Marian House: $150,000 to support renovations of the former convent and rectory of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Baltimore City to provide supportive housing for homeless women seeking to transform their lives
By Kelly Medinger
08-14-2017
A Q&A with trustees about the family’s participation in our grantmaking process
This is the third post in a multi-part series that explores a year in the life of the Knott Foundation behind the scenes
Did you know that 93% of Knott Foundation trustees conducted one or more site visits in the community last year?
This hands-on approach that our trustees take in our grantmaking process is one of the unique components of the Knott Foundation’s operations. In essence, our board of 28 family members from 3 generations functions not only as the governance body of the Foundation’s assets and charitable activities, but also as “a team of volunteer program officers” – evaluating grant requests, conducting site visits, and reporting back to their fellow board members each year.
As part of our “behind the scenes” blog series, we’re taking a look at the inner workings of the Knott Foundation, from strategic planning to grantmaking. This is the third post in the three-part series:
- Part I (read it here) recapped our strategic journey over the past three years to share our donor intent and legacy, explore our own talents and resources, and create a common education base around community needs and conditions.
- Part II (read it here) examined what happens behind the scenes with grant applications – from the time a letter of inquiry comes in the door to when a final grant report is submitted.
- Part III (this post) features a Q&A with trustees about the family’s participation in our grantmaking process, including reflections on their giving philosophies and experiences as site visitors.
Recently, I sat down with several longtime trustees of the Knott Foundation to hear their perspectives on how we approach our grantmaking and what they look for in grant requests. Below are excerpts from that conversation.
How would you describe the involvement of our trustees in the grantmaking operations of the Foundation?
Martin: We are very involved, not only from a screening perspective when an organization comes to us with a letter of inquiry, but beyond that. We go out on site visits to see organizations in action and meet the people involved, and then we write about it and share it with our fellow trustees. This work ultimately puts us in touch with the people we’re serving.
Patrick: My grandfather was very hardworking, so it’s not surprising that we have a hardworking board as well. And while I don’t want to speak for everyone on the board, I think many people would say that doing site visits is their favorite thing that we do as trustees. Each cycle we get to select the grant application we want to evaluate. Kathleen sends us the materials, and we study them and prepare our site visit questions. After the visit we do our own write-up about the organization, the nuts and bolts of the request, and an assessment of their leadership and financial position.
John: On a scale of 1 to 10, I would rate the involvement of our trustees as an 8. Obviously, some people are more involved than others, but we still rely on our professional staff to do some of the legwork each grant cycle.
In your experience, what makes for a good site visit?
John: Being prepared. Having the right people in the room and thinking of questions and issues ahead of time. But also being prepared to offer suggestions or be critical in front of them. We’re here to learn from you, but we’re also here to share our own perspective. I find that I can usually offer them a variety of suggestions or connect them to organizations that might be good partners. As a foundation operating in the Baltimore community for 40 years, we bring a huge amount of knowledge to the table.
Visiting the nonprofit organizations we support creates meaningful opportunities for learning about the needs of our community. What are some trends, challenges, or opportunities that you see in the program areas we support?
Lindsay: I see a trend in Catholic religious orders that are not prepared financially to take care of their aging populations.
John: There is also a lot of consolidation of Catholic schools, parishes, and provinces going on.
Patrick: I see a trend in programs that work with older youth in our city, where so many of the movers and shakers are new organizations that are founder-led and founder-driven. It makes me wonder what the sector will look like in 20 or 30 years, and how we can support these organizations now to ensure that their innovation and work continues for decades to come.
What are some of the key ingredients you look for when evaluating a grant proposal?
Martin: Statistics that demonstrate successful outcomes, along with trying to get a read on the leadership and make-up of the board – are they givers, raisers, what are their talents? Knowing they’ve executed the mission successfully and can back that up with data is important.
John: The very first thing I look at is the professional leader’s experience and tenure. Board giving is also hugely important to me, because if an organization’s own board isn’t contributing financially, then why should we? Next I look at how many people are served, is the ask reasonable, and how well-prepared they are for the site visit.
Any other thoughts or reflections you’d like to share with our grant applicants?
John: Tone down the flowery language and stick to convincing facts.
Patrick: I’d point out that we don’t always have the funds available to award every worthwhile grant that comes to our attention. There are lots of great organizations and programs strengthening the community, and we’re lucky to be able to support a few of them in that important work.
Lindsay: When we as trustees meet with grant applicants is when we really find out about your impact in the community. A hallmark of the Foundation is the time we spend as trustees learning about your work, seeing your program in action, and then sharing your story with the rest of the board. I think we are all very thankful that we have that opportunity and grateful for our many grantees who’ve been so generous with their time and expertise over the past 40 years.
By Kathleen McCarthy
06-16-2017
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 14 organizations received over $800,000 in our June 2017 grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Church of the Nativity: $67,506 to support the purchase of liturgical elements to enrich the spiritual experience of parishoners and visistors alike at this growing Catholic parish in Lutherville
- Monsignor O’Dwyer Retreat House: $60,000 to support capital improvements to enhance the comfort and prayerful experience for youth and young adults visiting this Sparks-based Catholic retreat facility for the past 50 years
- St. Bernardine Church: $20,000 to support capital improvements to increase safety and access to this Catholic parish in the Edmondson Village neighborhood of Baltimore City
Education
- Camp Puh’tok for Boys and Girls: $75,000 to support the participation of 50 low-income Baltimore City youth in the year-round Urban Youth Scholars Program at this 60 acre outdoor learning center in Northern Baltimore County
- Loyola Blakefield: $60,000 to support 1:1 technology access for students in need at this Jesuit, college preparatory school in Towson serving boys in grades 6 – 12
- Maryvale Preparatory School: $100,000 to support STEM-related technology upgrades at this Catholic, independent school in Lutherville serving girls in grades 6 – 12
- St. Elizabeth School: $58,353 to support capital improvements so that this Catholic, nonpublic, special education school in Baltimore City can serve more elementary-age students
- St. Ignatius Loyola Academy: $55,285 to support the expansion of technology and faculty training at this tuition-free, Jesuit school in Baltimore City for underserved boys in grades 5 – 8
- St. Michael – St. Clement School: $120,000 to support the purchase and integration of technology at this newly merged Catholic school in Baltimore serving students in grades pre-K-8
Human Services
- Franciscan Center: $33,335 as a 2:1 matching grant to support the capacity-building efforts of this Catholic outreach organization in Baltimore City, which has provided a continuum of basic services to the poor for nearly 50 years
- Paul’s Place: $30,000 to support general operating costs associated with the case management program at this anchor community organization, which is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Southwest Baltimore
By Kelly Medinger
03-07-2017
Celebrating 40 years of a family legacy of generosity to strengthen our community
We are pleased to release a short film showcasing the history and mission of the Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Foundation.
After four decades of grantmaking in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, we wanted to tell the story of who our founders were, why they created the Foundation, how multiple generations of the Knott family are involved in our work today, and how our founders’ vision and legacy continues to strengthen the community in and around Baltimore.
Click here to watch the 6-minute film, or visit our homepage and click on the photo of Marion and Henry.
We would like to thank all of the people who participated in the making of this film, including our grantees Caroline Center, St. Elizabeth School, and St. Francis Neighborhood Center, as well as Archbishop William Lori, Fr. Robert Leavitt, Peter Angelos, and members of the Knott family.
It is an honor to steward the legacy of Marion and Henry Knott, and to share our story with you.
By Kelly Medinger
02-28-2017
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in arts & humanities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 16 organizations received over $700,000 in our February 2017 grant cycle.
Arts & Humanities
- Baltimore Center Stage: $50,000 to support this nationally recognized theater company’s accessibility for blind, deaf, and autistic populations
Education
- Baltimore Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School: $40,000 to support this experiential education organization’s Character & Leadership Initiative at two Catholic girls schools, Sisters Academy and Mercy High School
- Dyslexia Tutoring Program: $50,000 to support the general operations of this program delivering free, specialized tutoring services to low-income children and adults with language-based learning differences
- Mount St. Mary’s University: $40,000 to support equipment acquisition in the Division of Chemistry at this Catholic university in Emmitsburg
- St. Maria Goretti High School: $65,000 to support a 1:1 Chromebook initiative at this Catholic high school in Hagerstown
- St. Mark School: $100,000 to support technology upgrades at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Catonsville
- St. Stephen School: $60,000 to support the Academic Excellence in Reading Program at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Kingsville
- The Maryland School for the Blind: $45,073 to support the construction of a new accessible playground for students who are blind or visually impaired
- Trinity School: $82,400 to support technology upgrades at this K-8 Catholic school in Ellicott City
Health Care
- Charm City Clinic: $17,000 to support the general operations of this volunteer-driven health care access organization serving low-income residents in East Baltimore
Human Services
- Adoptions Together: $49,463 to support digital enhancements to the Heart Gallery, a physical display featuring adoptable children in foster care, as part of this organization’s mission to create lifelong connections for children in need
- CHANGE, Inc.: $25,000 to support renovations to their Respite Inn in Carroll County, where individuals with disabilities and their families can receive respite care
- Job Opportunities Task Force: $35,000 to support the general operating costs of Project JumpStart Mentoring, a new program pairing Baltimore City’s opportunty youth with successful graduates of JOTF’s cornerstone pre-apprencticeship workforce development program
- Maryland Farmers Market Association: $30,000 to support Maryland Market Money, a program designed to augment the food budgets of low-income residents while simultaneously supporting the livelihoods of local farmers
- Partners in Care: $45,000 to support the Member Care and Ride Partner Programs, which are designed to maintain and enhance the independence of older adults in Anne Arundel County
- Penn-Mar Human Services: $45,000 to support the Baltimore County operations of the Customized Integrated Employment Program, which places individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in community-based employment positions
For a complete listing of our grant awards, please visit our past awards database.
By Kelly Medinger
02-28-2017
Announcing our first round of grant recipients in our Building Opportunities in Out-of-School Time initiative
Our founders believed that education was the key to success, and that hard work combined with access to the right opportunities opened doors for people to become leaders in their communities. Our Building Opportunities in Out-of-School Time (BOOST) initiative is an extension of this donor intent and seeks to build opportunities in out-of-school time hours for older disadvantaged youth in Baltimore.
In short, we believe that kids need committed and caring adults to help them navigate life, and that out-of-school time programs are a great avenue to help build those relationships and help them realize their full potential.
Through our BOOST initiative, we’d like to see organizations demonstrate significant depth, duration, and reach of informal and formal mentoring relationships between older youth and caring adults. With those measures, research says in the long-term these youth will experience improved educational outcomes and labor market success, improved decision-making capabilities, and beneficial effects on a number of other well-being variables – all of which point to our founders’ deep-seated value of education, opportunity, and hard work.
This year we are pleased to announce our first round of BOOST initiative grants, totaling $355,000 to four organizations in Baltimore.
BOOST Awards: Round I
- Medical Education Resources Initiative for Teens (MERIT): $140,000 grant over four years ($35,000/year) to support the capacity-building efforts of this organization, which aims to eliminate health care disparities by transforming underrepresented Baltimore City high school students into health care leaders
- Next One Up: $40,000 grant over two years ($20,000/year) to support the general operations of this organization, which aims to transform the lives of young men in Baltimore City by supporting and advancing their academic, athletic, and social development
- Sisters Circle: $105,000 grant over three years ($35,000/year) to support the general operations of this organization, which offers long-term mentoring relationships for at-risk girls in Baltimore, empowering them to define success for themselves, make intentional decisions about their futures, and become self-sufficient young women
- Thread: $70,000 grant over two years ($35,000/year) to support salary expenses of this organization, which engages underperforming high school students in Baltimore City, provides them with a family of committed volunteer mentors, and encourages them to become self-motivated, resilient, and responsible citizens
BOOST is a 5-year, $1 million initiative. Participation is by invitation only. We look forward to sharing what we learn from this initiative over time.
For a complete description of the program, please visit our BOOST initiative webpage. And to read more about the Foundation’s journey to develop the BOOST initiative, click here.
By Kelly Medinger
02-23-2017
Weaving a network of life, hope, and charity
I am pleased to announce the publication of our 2016 annual report.
“Weaving a Network of Life, Hope, and Charity” is the theme of our 2016 annual report. Through this theme we remark how organizations across the Archdiocese of Baltimore are weaving the threads of life, hope, and charity to create a more vibrant social fabric in the communities we serve.
Our annual reports are a wonderful archival resource of the Foundation’s grantmaking activities, as well as a way to learn about the positive impact of some of our recent grants in education, human services, health care, arts & humanities, and Catholic activities. For a collection of our past annual reports click here.
I hope you enjoy reading our 2016 annual report and learning more about the Knott Foundation’s mission to strengthen the community.
By Kathleen McCarthy
10-14-2016
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education and human services.
We are pleased to announce that 14 organizations received nearly $650,000 in our October grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Jesuit Volunteer Corps: East: $15,000 grant to support the recruitment, training and on-going work of five Baltimore-based Jesuit Volunteers committed to serving the poor and marginalized
Education
- Monsignor Slade Catholic School: $59,000 grant to support the implementatoin of a mobile device program and teacher professional development at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Glen Burnie
- St. Francis of Assisi School: $65,420 grant to support the implementaion of a technology Master Plan at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Northeast Baltimore
Human Services
- Associated Catholic Charities: $65,000 grant to support the St. Edward’s Workforce Development Center, an automotive job training program located in West Baltimore
- Family and Children's Services of Central Maryland: $40,000 grant to support the launch of a centralized intake system called Access FCS, creating a single point of entry and lowering barriers for individuals and families seeking behavioral health services
- Intersection of Change: $35,000 grant to support Martha’s Place, a recovery program for women overcoming drug addicition and homelessness in West Baltimore
- Living Classrooms Foundation: $48,457 grant to support general operating costs of Project SERVE, a community service and job-training program for unemployed and disadvantaged adults
- Pathfinders for Autism: $39,880 grant to support and expand the Community Safety Program, training law enforcement, fire, and EMS first responders across Central Maryland to more effectively interact with individuals on the autism spectrum
- St. Mary's Outreach Center: $35,000 grant to support operating costs for the Center, which improves the quality of life for older adults living in poverty in the greater Hampden community
By Kelly Medinger
09-30-2016
A look at what happens behind the scenes with grant applications
This is the second post in a multi-part series that explores a year in the life of the Knott Foundation behind the scenes
Do you ever wonder what happens to your grant application after you click “submit”? Or who reads your final report once your grant is over? If so, this blog post is for you!
As part of our “behind the scenes” blog series, we’re taking a look at the inner workings of the Knott Foundation from strategic planning to grantmaking. This is the second post in the three-part series:
- Part I (read it here) recapped our strategic journey over the past three years to share our donor intent and legacy, explore our own talents and resources, and create a common education base around community needs and conditions.
- Part II (this post) examines what happens behind the scenes with grant applications – from the time a letter of inquiry comes in the door to when a final grant report is submitted.
- Part III will feature a Q&A with trustees about the family’s participation in our grantmaking process, including reflections on their giving philosophies and experiences as site visitors.
Letters of Inquiry
Our grantmaking process starts with registration in our online Grants Portal and submission of a letter of inquiry.
Nearing the deadline, our Grants Manager, Kathleen, starts processing all of the letters that are submitted. Your letter merges into a template, with key information at the top (organization name and address, request amount, project title, etc.) and the body of your letter below. We also include a chart of your funding history and attach your one-page Financial Analysis Form.
All of the letters and financial forms are organized by program area and sent to a committee of our board who review the letters three times a year. The committee spends a couple weeks looking through the information and then meets to discuss the submissions.
Each cycle we receive approximately 60 letters of inquiry. In the end we only invite 1 in 4 applicants to submit a full proposal – more a factor of our own limited resources than anything else. Notably, while education is our largest program area in terms of funding, about half of the letters we receive each year are in the human services program area.
By the end of the month we notify every applicant via email whether your letter of inquiry was advanced or not. Sometimes applicants will call (understandably) to find out why their letter was not advanced. While we’re always happy to take a call or respond to an email, it’s rare that we have any specific feedback for applicants (other than we simply didn’t have enough resources to bring them in).
Full Proposals
The full proposal process starts with a phone call and a conversation with Kathleen. She walks you through the application guidelines and what to expect, and emails you a link to the full proposal template in our Grants Portal.
One unique feature of this stage in our process is the opportunity to have Kathleen review a draft of your proposal. A good number of our applicants take advantage of this opportunity each cycle, and Kathleen shares her feedback through the Grants Portal. We see this as a great opportunity for knowledge-sharing: we learn from the information contained in your proposal, and we’re also able to ask questions or share ideas that we’ve gleaned from others who have done similar projects in the past.
Once you submit your full proposal and all of the required attachments, your proposal is merged into a template (similar to the letter of inquiry). A list of all of the applicants is sent to a committee of our board who votes on grants, and each committee member selects which organization(s) they want to explore.
About a month or so after submitting your full proposal, a trustee or staff member will usually contact you to schedule a site visit. That person will have all of the information you submitted with your grant application, as well as a copy of your post grant report from your most recent grant (if applicable).
Once the site visits are complete, the committee meets to discuss and vote on each proposal. While the letter of inquiry process is highly competitive (with only 1 in 4 applications advanced), by the full proposal stage the odds are much better: about 80% of our applicants receive at least a portion of what they asked for.
After this meeting, we call you to relay the news about your proposal, regardless of the outcome.
Interim Reports
A few years ago my colleague, Kathleen, spearheaded a new modality for interim reporting: phone conversations! For years we used to require our grantees submit a written report at the 6-month mark of their grant; however, Kathleen knew from her experience as our Grants Manager that the information exchange could be (and would be) better over the phone.
For this step, Kathleen contacts you to schedule the phone conversation. Each conversation typically lasts about 30 minutes. Some organizations delegate the call to their development person, while others pull in one or more program people to discuss the details of the grant-funded project. Either way the conversation is fruitful; both parties can ask questions, link to other resources, problem-solve, or even brainstorm new ideas.
Throughout these phone conversations, Kathleen takes notes. She shares her notes with me and the trustee who conducted the original site visit for the grant. Over time, these interim phone conversations have become an integral part of our knowledge gathering and knowledge sharing in the field.
Post Grant Reports
At the end of each grant, a post grant report is due. Unlike the interim report, this is a written report prepared by the grantee that recaps the challenges and successes encountered during the grant period. Kathleen reviews all of the reports and prepares a brief summary of each. I review both the summaries and the reports, and if there are no issues, we officially “close” the grant in our system.
Like our notes from the interim report conversations, your post grant report is shared with the trustee who conducted the original site visit. But your report ALSO becomes part of your next grant application, as we seek to incorporate an assessment of your previous stewardship into any new request for funding.
So what?
So that’s it – our grant process from soup to nuts! I hope this post has given you a window into what happens “behind the scenes” once your letter of inquiry, full proposal, and grant reports are submitted. If you have any input on our process from your standpoint – timing, requirements, feedback, etc. – please feel free to share it with us at knott@knottfoundation.org.
By Kathleen McCarthy
06-30-2016
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in arts & humanities, education and human services.
We are pleased to announce that 10 organizations received over $650,000 in our June 2016 grant cycle.
Arts & Humanities
- Port Discovery Children’s Museum: $31,203 grant to support the delivery of the STEMventures after school program to children in grades 3 – 6 attending the four Catholic community schools in Baltimore City
Education
- Archdiocese of Baltimore: $50,000 grant to support the Smart Classroom initiative designed to enhance 21st Century technology opportunities in the four Catholic community schools in Baltimore City
- Institute of Notre Dame: $143,000 grant to support technology and security upgrades at this all-girls Catholic high school in Baltimore City
- Our Lady of Hope/St. Luke School: $61,590 grant to support Chromebooks for the middle school and associated infrastructure upgrades at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Dundalk
- Saint Ursula School: $89,000 grant to support a Chromebook initiative at this pre-K – 8 Catholic school in Baltimore County
- Sisters Academy of Baltimore: $50,000 grant to support development operations at this all-girls, tuition-free Catholic middle school in southwest Baltimore
Human Services
- Catholic Charities: $72,123 grant to support a technology upgrade designed to improve employee mobility, system access and security, and quality of care at the largest private human services provider in Maryland
- Helping Up Mission: $40,000 grant to support general operating costs associated with the Education and Workforce Development program at this 130-year-old organization serving homeless, poor, and addicted men in Baltimore City
- Itineris: $100,000 grant to support the acquisition of additional building space to expand the availability of services for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Baltimore City
For a complete listing of our grant awards from previous cycles, please visit our past awards database.
By Kelly Medinger
03-07-2016
Recapping our strategic journey over the past three years
This is the first post in a multi-part series that explores a year in the life of the Knott Foundation behind the scenes
Transparency, in a nutshell, is about openness and accountability. To operate transparently, I believe our foundation must provide the broader community with relevant and timely information about our work, our operations and processes, and what we’re learning. A valuable byproduct of this sharing is that it opens the floor for discussion and participation from our stakeholders, promoting our own accountability to the community.
Having been in the grantseeker role myself, I understand that people might be curious about what’s happening “behind the scenes” in our office (or any private foundation for that matter). While there’s a lot of information on our website, and we’re always happy to talk over the phone, there may still be some big, unanswered questions. For example: When and how do we reflect on our work? What strategic thinking have we been doing over the past few years? How is the Knott family involved in our grantmaking process, and how do their professional and personal experiences help inform their work? And what exactly happens to that letter of inquiry, grant proposal, or post grant report that you write once it’s submitted?
To help answer these questions, I’m launching a blog series to explore a year in the life of the Knott Foundation behind the scenes. Here’s an outline of what you can expect to learn from these blog posts:
- Part I (this post) recaps our strategic journey over the past three years to share our donor intent and legacy, explore our own talents and resources, and create a common education base around community needs and conditions.
- Part II will examine what happens behind the scenes with grant applications – from the time a letter of inquiry comes in the door to when a final grant report is submitted.
- Part III will feature a Q&A with trustees about the family’s participation in our grantmaking process, including reflections on their giving philosophies and experiences as site visitors.
To begin, we’ve spent the last three years reflecting on three important components of our work: our donor intent and legacy, our foundation talents and resources, and our community needs and conditions. All of these components play a role in guiding our strategic direction as a Catholic family foundation in the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Our Donor Intent and Legacy
One way of positioning donor intent is through three basic, formative questions I believe all foundations must answer about their giving: why, what, and how. Donor intent is the why. It illustrates the values that motivated our founders to give back in the ways that they did.
In the words of business writers Jim Collins and Jerry Porras, “It is more important to know who you are than where you are going, for where you are going will change as the world around you changes” (Building Your Company’s Vision, Harvard Business Review, 1996). For a family foundation like ours, donor intent is that identity, that stable force in an ever-changing world, which Collins and Porras allude to.
In 2014, after researching our donor intent and discussing it at a foundation retreat, we decided to share more about the legacy of our founders through the program pages on our website. There, you can find information about why Mr. and Mrs. Knott cared so deeply about supporting communities in the Archdiocese of Baltimore through giving to education, human services, health care, arts and humanities, and the Catholic Church. The values embodied in these stories are the guiding force behind our role as grantmakers entrusted with honoring the legacy of our founders.
Our Talents and Resources
Yet even with a shared understanding of our donor intent, it’s worth noting that our board looks very different today than it did when Mr. and Mrs. Knott established the Foundation 39 years ago. Twenty-nine Knott family members serve as trustees, representing three generations of the Knott family – the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren of Marion and Henry Knott.
With this many voices in the boardroom, it has been important for us to understand and reflect on our own talents and resources as a grantmaking foundation, and to be mindful in how we approach our work. We do this by taking a global view of our grantmaking – evaluating application and award statistics by each program area, for instance – as well as discussing our own tolerance for risk, expectations for results, passion for our work, and capabilities as a small-staffed foundation.
Our Community Needs and Conditions
Another important piece of the strategy puzzle for family foundations is external in nature – it’s all about community needs and conditions.
Last year I had the opportunity to formally consult with more than 25 high-level experts representing all sectors of our giving – executive directors, school principals, researchers, program staff, national advocates, and other grantmakers. These practitioners painted a picture of some of the key challenges facing our community and pointed us to important resources to further our learning. The Knott Foundation's board examined these findings at a retreat, spending time discussing the landscape of our ever-changing community, reflecting on our own giving, and determining how best to advance our mission to strengthen the community within the panoply of pressing needs that exist now.
So What?
So what do these three components have in common? They all intersect to help us manage our own strategic direction as a foundation.
Our founders saw a whole community of needs, which is reflected today in our broad programmatic focus and open application process. At the same time, Mr. and Mrs. Knott were steadfast in their dedication to education and the Catholic faith; they saw the Church as an anchor institution poised to address a wide spectrum of societal needs. Therefore, within our five program areas we continue to prioritize education and Catholic organizations because they were of central importance to our founders and remain important to both our current board and the Maryland community.
Next year, we’ll also initiate a small-scale, proactive funding portfolio in the out-of-school time space. This portfolio will focus on helping disadvantaged older youth in Baltimore City, especially through informal and formal mentoring relationships between youth and caring adults. I look forward to sharing more about this initiative and what we learn from it over time.
Ultimately our goal is to steward the resources entrusted to us by honoring the intent of our original donors, accommodating the preferences of our current board, and responding to the conditions of the present community. In this way, we remain true to our roots as a family foundation seeking to strengthen the community here in Maryland.
By Kelly Medinger
02-16-2016
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 18 organizations received over $700,000 in our February 2016 grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students): $50,000 grant to support this organization’s expansion to Towson University, inviting college students into a growing relationship with their faith and the Catholic Church
- Ignatian Volunteer Corps.: $25,000 grant to support the Baltimore-based capacity building efforts of this Catholic, volunteer service organization for men and women over the age of 50
- Saint Clare Parish: $50,000 grant to support capital improvements to the interior church at this 60-year-old Catholic parish located in Essex, Maryland
- St. Vincent De Paul Roman Catholic Church: $12,840 grant to support the church’s Resource Exchange Program, which seeks to turn houses into homes for the formerly homeless
Education
- Acts4Youth: $10,000 grant to support two comprehensive mentoring programs, Game Plan to Manhood and Shine Into Womanhood, serving at-risk youth in Baltimore City elementary, middle, and high schools
- Druid Heights Community Development Corps: $30,000 grant to support year-round programming for youth living in the Druid Heights neighborhood of Baltimore City
- Higher Achievement Baltimore: $45,000 grant to support the general operations and technological capacity of this academic focused after-school program serving youth in grades 4 through 8 in Baltimore City
- Junior Achievement of Central Maryland: $30,000 grant to support the implementation of the JA Career Success and JA Build Your Future career prep and life success programs for early high school students in the Archdiocese of Baltimore
- Mercy High School: $76,150 grant to support technology upgrades at this all-girls Catholic high school in Baltimore City
- St. John the Evangelist Catholic School (Long Green): $50,000 grant to support a technology expansion, including 1:1 devices for the middle school, at this preK-8 Catholic school in Baltimore County
- Soccer Without Borders Baltimore: $35,000 grant to support this comprehensive afterschool program for newcomer refugee students in middle and high school in Baltimore City
- South Baltimore Learning Center: $45,500 grant to support the development and execution of a new marketing and outreach plan for this community-based organization focused on educationally disadvantaged adult learners in Baltimore City
Health Care
Human Services
- CASA of Allegany County: $25,000 grant to support efforts to recruit, screen, train, and support new volunteer advocates for children in the custody of the court in Allegany County
- Caroline Center: $50,000 grant to support the expansion of this Catholic, tuition-free employment training program for women in health care to Baltimore City’s Westside
- Catholic Charities: $64,100 grant to support the implementation of a professional mentoring program for teachers at their Catholic Charities Head Start of Baltimore City program
- Harford Community Action Agency, Inc.: $25,740 grant to support the expansion of their foodbank/pantry hours to reach more individuals and families in Harford County who are experiencing financial hardships
- Moveable Feast: $49,500 grant to support architectural design costs for this “food as medicine” organization’s renovation work as part of the Sustain the Feast, Secure the Future capital campaign
For a complete listing of our grant awards, please visit our past awards database.
By Kelly Medinger
02-10-2016
Bringing people together “under one roof” across Maryland
I am pleased to announce the publication of our 2015 annual report.
Last year painted a dichotomous picture of our community. On the one hand, we observed the noble ministry of nonprofits working tirelessly to help meet the spiritual, educational, social, and cultural needs of people all across Maryland. On the other hand, we also witnessed unrest in the wake of Freddie Gray’s death that plainly exposed the many structural inequities facing our city.
“Under One Roof” is the theme of our 2015 annual report. Through this theme we express optimism in our potential to bring people living in the Archdiocese of Baltimore closer in communion with one another, and to promote opportunity for all people.
I hope you enjoy reading our 2015 annual report and learning more about the Knott Foundation’s legacy as well as the many inspiring stories behind the grants that we award.
By Kelly Medinger
02-04-2016
Article explores how Knott grants to Catholic schools change students’ lives
The February 2016 Catholic Review magazine features an article by Mary K. Tilghman that explores how our grants to Catholic schools improve students’ lives.
Education is our largest program area, and we’re proud to have awarded over $4 million to Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore over the last five years. In 2015 alone, we awarded just over $1 million to Catholic schools, which equates to approximately 45% of our aggregate grantmaking distributions that year.
Beyond these numbers, however, is a story at each and every school illustrating how students are benefiting from the “whole package” that Catholic education offers: the character development it nurtures in students; the moral stability it provides to the community; the motivation it provides to students who are excelling academically; and the doors it opens for students who may have limited access to opportunity.
Our founders believed that education was the key to success, and that hard work combined with access to a quality education was the foundation from which all people could become active citizens, ready to give back and become leaders in their communities.
We thank the Catholic Review for highlighting our work in this area, and we hope you enjoy reading the article yourself.
By Kelly Medinger
10-23-2015
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 14 organizations received over $700,000 in our October 2015 grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- St.Francis Xavier Parish: $85,175 grant to support capital improvements to this historic church in East Baltimore, known as the first African American Catholic church community in the United States
Education
- Mother Seton Academy: $40,000 grant to support school-wide technology upgrades at this co-ed, tuition-free Catholic middle school in Baltimore City
- Mother Seton School: $30,000 grant to support the purchase and installation of interactive projectors in classrooms at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Emmitsburg
- Sacred Heart School of Glyndon: $60,000 grant to support a 1:1 technology initiative for grades 6 through 8 at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Baltimore County
- Seton Keough High School: $47,363 grant to support technology infrastructure upgrades at this all-girls Catholic high school in Baltimore City
- Visitation Academy: $90,665 grant to support capital improvements to this historic, all-girls pre-K-8 Catholic school in Frederick
Human Services
- Hampden Family Center: $65,000 grant to support capital improvements to this “community hub” that offers educational and support services to families, children, youth, and senior citizens living in the Hampden neighborhood of Baltimore City
- Manna House, Inc.: $40,000 grant to support the hiring of two new staff to assist this day shelter for the homeless reach more individuals in need in Baltimore City
- Meals on Wheels of Central MD., Inc.: $40,000 grant to support the Case Management and Client Services program, designed to help homebound people remain in their homes by connecting them to critical services
- Parks & People Foundation: $46,243 grant to support the BRANCHES youth job program for middle and high school youth in the Mondawmin community in Baltimore City
- St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore: $40,000 grant to support a technology upgrade that will help unify multiple program sites for improved data collection, program delivery, and mission advancement at this human-serving organization located in Baltimore City
For a complete listing of our grant awards, please visit our past awards database.
By Kelly Medinger
06-12-2015
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 13 organizations received over $700,000 in our June 2015 grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
Education
- Boys Hope Girls Hope of Baltimore: $48,000 grant to support operating costs for 16 scholars, ages 10-18, residing in the boys and girls homes in Baltimore City
- St. Augustine Catholic School: $45,750 grant to support an educational technology upgrade project including iPads, projectors, software, and teacher training at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Howard County
- St. Mary Catholic School: $46,970 grant to support new computers for the student computer lab, faculty, and staff at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Washington County
- St. Philip Neri School: $70,000 grant to support technology including infrastructure upgrades, a mobile device program for students, and professional development at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Anne Arundel County
- St. Pius X School: $82,500 grant to support technology including infrastructure upgrades and tablet devices for students at this pre-K-8 Catholic school in Baltimore County
Health Care
Human Services
- Catholic Charities: $52,480 grant to support the hiring of a case manager for My Sister's Place Women's Center's Learn to Earn Internship Program, which helps women in Baltimore City experiencing poverty and homelessness obtain employment and housing
- H.O.P.E. (For All): $22,000 grant to support general operating costs associated with the Turning Houses into Homes Program, which assists formerly homeless families and individuals in Anne Arundel County secure furniture and household items when they begin again in their own home
- House of Ruth: $25,000 grant to support the hiring of a bilingual child therapist for the Adelante Familia program, serving Hispanic/Latino children and parents in the Highlandtown neighborhood of Baltimore City
- Maryland Food Bank: $75,000 grant to support this hunger relief agency’s food safety initiative by upgrading their main distribution warehouse in Baltimore
- Paul's Place Outreach Center: $30,000 grant to support case management in the STABLE housing program, which seeks to rapidly re-house individuals experiencing chronic homelessness and prevent first-time homelessness in the Pigtown neighborhood of Baltimore City
For a complete listing of our grant awards, please visit our past awards database.
By Kelly Medinger
03-10-2015
Connecting to the vision and values of our founders
It is my pleasure to announce the publication of our 2014 annual report!
In 2014, we came together to explore and formalize the values and principles behind our founders’ generosity to people and organizations in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Consequently, in addition to stories about the impact of our grant awards, our 2014 annual report features short narratives about Henry and Marion Knott and how they lived their lives. These narratives and the values that they stand for inform our work as a Catholic family foundation committed to nurturing family unity and strengthening the community.
On a more personal note, I would like to remark on the passing of our beloved trustee, Alice Voelkel, at the end of last year. Alice was the third of Henry and Marion Knott’s 13 children. She was a past president of the Knott Foundation and a charter trustee, serving for 37 years on our board. She will be dearly missed.
I hope you enjoy reading our 2014 annual report and learning more about the Knott Foundation’s story and the many wonderful stories behind the grants that we award.
By Kelly Medinger
02-27-2015
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in arts & humanities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 14 organizations received over $700,000 in our February 2015 grant cycle.
Arts & Humanities
- Art With A Heart: $20,000 grant to support general operating costs associated with the Youth Entrepreneurship Program serving at-risk youth ages 16-24
Education
- Archbishop Spalding High School: $150,000 grant to support this Catholic high school’s Keeping the Promise Campaign by purchasing seating for the renovated auditorium
- Bishop Walsh School: $81,275 grant to support technology upgrades including interactive display systems and iPads for this pre-K-12 Catholic school located in Cumberland, Maryland
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Harford County: $45,240 grant to support the STEM Technology Refresh project benefitting children ages 5-18 at four of the Club’s locations
- Downtown Sailing Center: $25,588 grant to support salaries related to the organization’s STEM Summer Program, which provides hands-on STEM enrichment to 80 low-income children from Baltimore City and County
- Dyslexia Tutoring Program: $40,000 grant to support operating costs to deliver free specialized tutoring services to low-income children and adults who are dyslexic or have a language-based learning disability
- John Carroll School: $40,000 grant to support the acquisition of architectural designs for the renovation of the Academic Wing at this Catholic high school in Harford County
- St. Elizabeth School: $43,764 grant to support the replacement of carpeting throughout this Catholic school serving children with special needs age 6-21
- St. Francis Neighborhood Center: $40,000 grant to support this community-based organization’s Power Project, an after-school program for children ages 5-14 in the Reservoir Hill neighborhood of Baltimore City
- St. Michael the Archangel School: $45,000 grant to support technology infrastructure upgrades, projectors, and the installation of an interactive weather station at this pre-K-8 Catholic school
- Trinity School: $55,000 grant to support renovations to St. Lidwine’s Hall at this pre-K-8 Catholic school
Health Care
- Good Shepherd Services: $90,000 grant to support renovations to two residential units, providing housing and therapeutic services to youth ages 13-21 who are experiencing severe mental health and emotional disorders
- Shepherd's Clinic: $35,000 grant to support operating costs to provide health care to uninsured and underserved adults age 19-64 living in northeast Baltimore
Human Services
- Assistance Center of Towson Churches: $10,000 grant to support emergency assistance with evictions, utility turn offs, and medicine for people in need living in Baltimore City and County
For a complete listing of our grant awards, please visit our past awards database.
By Kelly Medinger
02-27-2015
Helping organizations make ends meet in times of uncertainty
Financial uncertainty is more common than not in the nonprofit world. One estimate says that approximately one-third of all nonprofits operate in a constant state of financial distress (Mattocks, Zone of Insolvency, 2008). For others, financial distress can come at a moment’s notice. A late grant payment, a pending insurance claim for a major repair, or a lackluster fundraiser can make it difficult for organizations to make ends meet in any given month.
The Knott Foundation can serve as a source of help. In 2003, we began offering cash flow loans to qualifying nonprofits that meet our eligibility guidelines. In brief, we have the ability to provide short-term loans of $10,000-$25,000 with favorable rates and a quick turnaround time to nonprofits experiencing delayed receivables. You can learn more about the cash flow loan program and how to apply on our website.
Over the last 12 years, we’ve awarded 38 loans totaling $739,500. As of the date of this posting, all of the funds have been paid back to the Foundation. Many organizations have benefited and, while the number of loans awarded each year reached its peak in 2008, we continue to respond to inquiries and accept applications.
A few years ago we highlighted a story about one of our cash flow loan recipients and their journey with fundraising after undergoing a leadership transition. That story is just one example of how an organization experiencing unforeseen financial distress can benefit from a small loan to bridge a critical moment in time.
Cash flow loans are just one tool that we’ve been able to use to help make a difference in the day-to-day operations of the nonprofits we support. If you are interested in learning more about the program or applying for a loan, please take a moment to review our website or call our office.
By Kelly Medinger
10-27-2014
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services
We are pleased to announce that 15 organizations received over $700,000 in our October 2014 grant cycle.
Catholic Activities
- Jesuit Volunteer Corps: $20,000 grant to support the recruitment, training and on-going work of five Baltimore-based Jesuit Volunteers committed to serving the poor and marginalized
Education
- Catholic High School of Baltimore: $100,000 grant to support the school’s first capital campaign and the McCafferty Visual & Performing Arts Program by renovating the auditorium’s production booth
- Code in the Schools: $20,000 grant to support operating costs for this out-of-school time program’s work teaching computer coding to underserved and under-represented youth in Baltimore City
- Notre Dame of Maryland University: $80,000 grant to support the Academy of Catholic School Educators (ACES) program and the creation of a model 21st century classroom and technology center for the professional development of K-12 Catholic school educators in the Archdiocese of Baltimore
Health Care
- Hospice of the Chesapeake: $45,000 grant to support the expansion of the Chesapeake Kids Perinatal Pediatric Palliative Program providing a continuum of care for families and children diagnosed with a life-limiting illness
Human Services
- Baltimore Child Abuse Center: $50,000 grant to support the expansion of the Family Advocacy Program and an additional Family Advocate who will serve child witnesses to violence in Baltimore City
- Catholic Charities: $50,000 grant to support the work of the Community Cares Outreach Worker in Western Maryland who connects households in crisis with resources in Allegany and Garrett counties
- Franciscan Center: $41,205 grant to support the work of the Volunteer and In-kind Coordinator at this comprehensive direct service outreach agency serving all zip codes in Baltimore City
- Govans Ecumenical Development Corporation: $35,000 grant to support operating costs for this housing and supportive service organization’s Community Services/CARES programs, which help move individuals from crisis to stability
- Light House Shelter: $20,000 grant to support advanced culinary job training and field catering experience for individuals in Anne Arundel County who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
- Marian House: $95,000 grant to support capital upgrades to the organization’s headquarters, which provides transitional, supportive housing for homeless women and children
- Maryland Center for Veterans Education & Training: $57,705 grant to support the Homeless Veterans Emergency Services Program by improving classroom instruction for homeless veterans and enhancing the organization’s marketing and outreach efforts
- Pathfinders for Autism: $48,533 grant to expand the organization’s Community Safety Program, which trains first responders to more effectively interact with individuals who have autism spectrum disorders
- St. Mary’s Outreach Center: $35,000 grant to support operating costs for the Center, which improves the quality of life for older adults living in poverty in the greater Hampden community
- YMCA of Cumberland: $62,311 grant to support capital upgrades to the Y’s Gilchrist Center, which provides housing for low-income, homeless, and disabled persons in Allegany county
For a complete listing of our grant awards, please visit our past awards database.
By Kelly Medinger
06-26-2014
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in education and Catholic activities
We are pleased to announce that 12 organizations received over $700,000 in our June 2014 grant cycle.
Education
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Baltimore: $35,000 grant to support the Be Great Summer Club Program at five sites in Baltimore City
- Immaculate Heart of Mary School: $45,000 grant to support the expansion of technology at this pre-K-8 Catholic school, including tablets for 8th grade students
- Maryland School for the Blind: $52,035 grant to support assistive technology and learning resources for students with multiple disabilities
- Mount de Sales Academy: $50,000 grant to support the technology integration program at this Catholic high school for girls, including outfitting classrooms with projectors, upgrading wireless capabilities, and purchasing a mobile laptop cart
- Mount Saint Joseph High School: $120,000 grant to support a campus-wide technology upgrade at this Catholic high school for boys, including replacement of their existing 1GB fiber connections between buildings
- Notre Dame Prep School: $80,623 grant to support the construction of a Science-Technology-Engineering-Art-Math (STEAM) Center at this Catholic middle/high school for girls
- St. Frances Academy: $30,000 grant to support the expansion of the after-school program at the Cosby Community Center, which serves the broader Brentwood Village/Johnston Square community in Baltimore City
- St. John Catholic School (Westminster): $60,000 grant to support the upgrade of this pre-K-8 Catholic school’s technology, including iPads for middle school students and faculty
- St. Joseph School (Cockeysville): $35,000 grant to support the construction of a playground at this pre-K-8 Catholic school
- St. Maria Goretti High School: $80,000 grant to support the renovation of this Catholic high school’s chemistry and physics lab
Catholic Activities
- The Josephites: $60,000 challenge grant to support this religious society of priests serving the African-American community by building their capacity to sustain their operations in the Archdiocese of Baltimore
- Saint Margaret Church: $90,000 grant to support the renovation of their church building
For a complete listing of our grant awards, please visit our past awards database.
By Carol Hoffman, Kathleen McCarthy, and Kelly Medinger
06-16-2014
Celebrating the recent graduation of our intern from Cristo Rey Jesuit High School
In life, we often meet someone who demonstrates a special quality that you cannot really describe. They exude an energy that you know will carry them far. We at the Knott Foundation met one such individual when Mr. Chae Aaron Harris walked through our doors in 2010.
Chae came to us through Cristo Rey Jesuit High School’s Corporate Internship Program, a unique funding model whereby students contribute to the cost of their education through work partnerships with local employers. Through this program, Chae was a member of the Knott Foundation team for two years.
Chae has long been interested in music, writing songs, and performing. In addition to singing at his church, he has written many of his own lyrics and occasionally sang them to his “beats” in our office! He recently performed in the play, “Lost Now Found,” at Victorious Ministries International and is working on a mixed-tape entitled, “Music Forever, Part 1.”
It’s hard to believe that Chae graduated from high school this past weekend. Yet it is exciting to watch him enter another stage of his life. Chae applied to six colleges and was accepted to the Community College of Baltimore County. He is still awaiting news from several other schools. Wherever he lands, he plans to major in music.
This summer, Chae will be working two jobs in order to help with college expenses.
While Chae gained worthwhile work experience during his time with us, we benefitted as well by seeing his tenacity, curiosity and talents grow. We also saw first-hand how opening doors of opportunity for talented, faith-filled students like those at Cristo Rey helps to create a stronger, more vibrant community.
We are so proud of Chae and all of the other Class of 2014 graduates who are starting their next journey, and we remain thankful for everyone who has helped them along the way.
By Kelly Medinger
04-09-2014
Painting a broader picture of the impact we’re having on people and communities in the Archdiocese of Baltimore
It is my pleasure to announce the publication of our 2013 Annual Report!
By weaving together outcomes from grants in our five program areas, our annual report paints a broader picture of the impact the Knott Foundation and our grantees are having on people and communities in the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
I hope you enjoy this publication and the many wonderful stories behind the grants that we award.
By Kelly Medinger
03-06-2014
Announcing our most recent grant recipients in education, Catholic activities, human services and health care
We are pleased to announce that 19 organizations received over $700,000 in our February 2014 grant cycle.
Education
- Enoch Pratt Free Library: $44,000 grant to support the expansion of the eLibrary and Gale Virtual Reference Library
- Our Lady of Hope/St. Luke School: $24,371 grant to support the upgrade of this pre-K-8 Catholic school’s computer lab and network
- School of the Incarnation: $67,000 grant to support Phase II of this pre-K-8 Catholic school’s technology initiative, including network upgrades and the purchase of new hardware
- Village Learning Place: $31,224 grant to support the LINK (Let's Invest in Neighborhood Kids) initiative, a free after school and summer program for students in the Charles Village neighborhood
Catholic Activities
- School Sisters of Notre Dame: $24,768 grant to support Villa Assumpta, a retirement facility for religious sisters, through the acquisition of much-needed equipment
Human Services
- At Jacob's Well: $25,000 grant to support case management services for mentally ill, homeless men and women in a transitional housing program
- Caroline Center: $50,000 grant to support operational costs for this organization’s tuition-free career and life skills educational program for unemployed and underemployed women in Baltimore
- CASA of Allegany County: $15,000 grant to support the recruiting, screening, and training of CASA volunteers to serve Allegany County’s abused and neglected children
- Family Tree: $40,000 grant to support family strengthening, school enhancing services at four Catholic schools in Baltimore City
- Historic East Baltimore Community Action Coalition: $25,000 grant to support the new position of a Director/Program Manager for the Baltimore Food Enterprise Center, providing economic and workforce development opportunities in a growing local food economy in East Baltimore
- HopeWell Cancer Support: $32,699 grant to support technology upgrades to help this organization improve education, outreach, and support to individuals and families dealing with cancer
- Job Opportunities Task Force: $25,000 grant to support JumpStart, a pre-apprenticeship training program in the building and construction trades for underserved, low-income Baltimore City residents
- Moveable Feast: $45,000 grant to support operating costs for the Culinary Training Program, providing job training and placement to underemployed adults in Baltimore who have a passion for food
- The Arc Baltimore: $17,400 grant to support this organization’s Parent’s Day Out Program at four Catholic parishes, offering respite for parents and caregivers of children with intellectual disabilities
- The Arc Carroll County: $40,000 grant to support the position of an Autism Coordinator to help craft Carroll County’s first autism program
Health Care
- Brook Lane Health Services: $50,000 grant to support the expansion of a facility that will provide 14 additional beds for inpatient psychiatric care for children and adolescents
- Gilchrist Hospice Care: $40,000 grant to support the Gilchrist Kids program that provides compassionate end of life care to children and those who love them
- Mission of Mercy: $42,000 grant to support the expansion of this community-based mobile health clinic by providing one additional day of service per month at their Reisterstown Clinic in Baltimore County
- Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults: $75,000 grant to support capital costs associated with the construction of a comfortable, multi-dimensional, supportive housing community in East Baltimore for young adults with cancer and their caregivers
For a complete listing of our grant awards from previous cycles, please visit our past awards database.
By Kelly Medinger
02-11-2014
A snapshot of facts and figures about us, our giving, and the Knott family legacy
Oftentimes my favorite part of a publication is the “by the numbers” section. (I can’t seem to resist a cleanly presented package of numbers that tells a bigger story!) So, I thought it would be interesting and useful to present a few facts and figures about the Knott Foundation, our giving, and the family’s historic legacy.
About Us
- $57 million in assets as of December 31, 2013
- 30 Knott family members serve on our Board of Trustees
- 3 full-time staff members work in our office
- 83% of Trustees conducted a site visit in 2013
- 15 years is the average tenure of our Trustees
About Our Giving
- Annually:
- 3 grant cycles are held in February, June and October
- Approximately 200 letters of inquiry are received
- Approximately 50 grants totaling around $2 million are awarded
- $40,000 was our median grant in 2013
- $120,000 was our largest grant in 2013
- Education is our largest program area
About the Knott Family Legacy
- 13 children were borne to Marion & Henry Knott
- 257 people now make up the Knott family – direct descendants of Marion & Henry Knott, their spouses, and children
- 3 generations of the Knott family serve on our Board of Trustees
- More than $50 million in grants have gone to help communities in the Archdiocese of Baltimore since our founding in 1977
As a premier Catholic family foundation in Maryland, we have the dual purpose to strengthen our community in the Archdiocese of Baltimore and promote family unity. With this mission in mind, we look forward to expanding these numbers in the future and continuing to tell our story for many years to come.
By Kelly Medinger
01-17-2014
We've expanded our communications mission through a refined website design
Our website has a new look!
In refining the design, we’ve also expanded our communications mission: Our aim is to paint a vivid picture of who we are and share in real-time what we’re learning.
As such, one of the new features on our website is a blog where we’ll post foundation news, spotlight stories about our grantees, and our key learnings from the field. We’ve also incorporated an embedded search function on the site and built program pages to showcase our giving in our five program areas: arts and humanities, Catholic activities, education, health care, and human services.
Beyond these changes, we want to assure you that grant seekers still have the ability to:
If you have any feedback about our new website, please send it to knott@knottfoundation.org. We would add that our new website is best viewed in the most recent version of popular web browsers (Internet Explorer version 10 or above, Firefox, and Google Chrome).
We look forward to staying in touch via our e-newsletter. In the meantime, please accept our warm wishes for a safe, healthy, and prosperous new year!
By Owen Knott
01-03-2013
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of the Marion I. & Henry J. Knott Foundation, I am delighted to announce the appointment of our new Executive Director, Kelly Medinger.
Many of you know Kelly from her former role as our Program and Communications Associate. Joining the Foundation in March 2011, she excelled in her work, and in our evaluation, exhibited competency and strength beyond that position. As Executive Director, her new responsibilities include managing the general operations of the Foundation, supporting board membership and development, overseeing our grantmaking efforts, and guiding and carrying out our strategic direction.
Since graduating with honors from the University of Notre Dame in Notre Dame, Indiana, Kelly's career in the philanthropic giving arena has spanned 12 years. Prior to joining the Foundation, she served as a Program Officer at The Goizueta Foundation in Atlanta, a private family foundation with Catholic roots. Upon moving to Baltimore in 2007, she became the Director of Corporate, Foundation and Government Relations at Stevenson University. You can learn more about Kelly by clicking here.
Kelly's appointment comes at an important time for the Knott Foundation. This past year we celebrated 35 years of grantmaking. With three generations and 30 family members on our Board, we are confident that Kelly will serve the Foundation, the Knott family, and the Maryland nonprofit community with enthusiasm and thoughtfulness - as we have learned is her way.
"It is an honor and a privilege to be selected for this role," shared Kelly. "And I very much look forward to working with our trustees, grantees, fellow funders, and community leaders to help carry out the mission of the Foundation and the inspiring legacy of our founders, Marion I. and Henry J. Knott."
Alongside our Board of Trustees and our dedicated professional staff, Carol and Kathleen, we invite you to extend a warm welcome to Kelly in her new role. We are extremely grateful to have her talent and leadership at the Knott Foundation.
Thank you for all that you do to support our community, and please accept our best wishes for a joyous and successful new year.
