Our mission of Land Conservation and Artistic Vitality for communities in the Chicago region and the Lowcountry of South Carolina honors the values and legacy of our founders Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley by focusing on a healthy natural environment and artistic expression.

Where We Work


How We Work

No organization creates change on its own. In both land conservation and artistic vitality we partner with many organizations. We are particularly interested in collaborations that recognize the value of diverse groups working together. In these situations we do more than make grants, by organizing our work into initiatives. Within initiatives we commission and share research, using data to best understand the issues. We support coaching to build the strength of organizations. We connect people through convening, encouraging them to work together. We employ strategic communications to help larger audiences better understand challenges and opportunities.


Applying for a grant

If your organization is considering a grant application, please review our Programs section to make sure your proposal is relevant to our mission and regions. While we organize the bulk of our work into initiatives, your proposal need not fit into any particular intiative to be eligible. To learn more, visit the Grants section. We do not have a Letter of Intent (LOI) process. Instead, we encourage you to call us with questions as you shape your proposal.

From the Blog

An introduction from David Farren

As I compose this initial post as Judith Stockdale's successor, I'm delighted by the warm welcome I've received in my new role, both here in Chicago and in the South Carolina Lowcountry. Although it can sometimes sound like a cliché, the opportunity to lead GDDF truly is a "dream job" for me. Read More »

18 years of foundation growth: Reflections and thanks from Judith Stockdale

A New Year is about looking forward, but at the end of 18-plus years at the foundation, I find myself looking back at my great learning curve and many challenging, fun, funny and marvelous experiences. Read More »

Laura Donnelley thanks Judith Stockdale for 18 years of service

A note from board chair Laura Donnelley as Judith Stockdale steps down as executive director after 18 years at the helm.  Read More »

Recent Tweets

8 Jun
The Foundation's Chicago office phones are currently down. Please email staff directly.

25 May
Happy Friday and holiday weekend! @chiwilderness @Nature_IL @jasonmelohall @vaughnhomes @Kimikoymtkq #FF

21 May
Tonight is @ChicagoNP's #ChicagosLargestNonProfitFair - meet organizations making a difference in Chicago. http://t.co/I4vG4PrJnd

21 May
5 national wildlife refuge trails in SC Lowcountry. MT @USFWSRefuges Go take a hike. Natl Trails Day June 1 http://t.co/goAayn0I4o