A foundation is a type of nonprofit organization or charitable trust that usually provides funding and support to other charitable organizations through grants, while also potentially participating directly in charitable activities. Foundations encompass public charitable foundations, like community foundations, and private foundations, which are often endowed by an individual or family. Nevertheless, the term "foundation" might also be adopted by organizations not primarily engaged in public grantmaking.
Chart of a foundation
A charitable organization or charity is an organization whose primary objectives are philanthropy and social well-being.
American Cancer Society offices in Washington, D.C.
The second-hand shop of UFF (U-landshjälp från Folk till Folk i Finland), a non-profit and non-governmental humanitarian foundation, in Jyväskylä, Finland.
The Foundling Hospital, whose building has been demolished.
Painting by Antoine-Alexandre Morel (1765–1829) depicting charity during the Enlightenment era.