THE ARLINGTON FOUNDATIONBuilding a Trust-Based Foundation from the Ground Up
ALABAMA 2022-2025Philanthropy Advising
Grant Implementation
Process
Zadie & Co. worked with the foundation from its early formation through its first years of active grantmaking, helping the board launch and scale a an approach grounded in long-term relationships and trust-based philanthropy. We developed the foundation’s governance framework, educated the board on effective and unrestricted giving, designed and managed a focused grant portfolio, and facilitated deep engagement with grantees through site visits, gatherings, and ongoing dialogue. As the foundation matured, our work evolved to build Arlington’s internal capacity and prepare the foundation to bring administration in house.
Challenge
The Arlington Foundation was created to exemplify a family’s belief in giving generously and meaningfully. However, like many new family foundations, it faced the challenge of translating its values into action. The board needed a grantmaking strategy that balanced ambition with discipline, avoided performative giving or transactional relationships, and built the internal confidence necessary to steward significant resources well over time.
Results
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$2.5 million deployed to nonprofit organizations
Including 6 multi-year, unrestricted grants in Central Alabama. Prioritizing depth over breadth, the foundation provided trajectory-changing support to a focused portfolio.
A confident, informed, and invested board practicing disciplined philanthropy
Through facilitated meetings and site visits, board members evolved from early curiosity to disciplined philanthropic practice. By 2025, they were aligned, engaged, and ready to steward the foundation’s next chapter.
Ongoing strategic counsel that helped leaders navigate decisions and shape the foundation’s long-term direction
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Annual impact reports designed to meet the foundation's specific messaging needs
Read the 2025 report. Our impact reports document outcomes, elevate grantee voices, and reflect the foundation’s commitment to trust-based philanthropy.
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TESTIMONIAL“We began working with Zadie & Co. after struggling to find direction for our fledgling foundation. They quickly helped us identify our giving passions and articulated that vision through a series of workshops and documents that guide our activities. From governance to meeting facilitation to vetting grant recipients, Zadie & Co. has been the key to launching and stewarding our foundation.”
Jim Dixon
The Arlington Foundation
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