The Foundation

We envision a community where individuals achieve economic self-sufficiency without experiencing undue financial burden.

Our vision for people living with mental illnesses is that they are engaged and supported members of the community.

The Patrick P. Lee Foundation awarded its first grant in 2008, when the United States was on the precipice of a sharp economic decline. To best respond to the rising community needs, the Foundation implemented a funding strategy that was expansive and flexible. Grants were made in the areas of education, behavioral health, community services, and medical care and research.

2016 was a pivotal year for the Foundation, as the Board embarked on an intensive review of its community investments to more fully understand the impact of its work. After thoughtful evaluation and discussion, the Board adopted a new strategic plan that concentrated investments in education and mental health, areas that had long been at the core of the Foundation’s work.

The Foundation is committed to identifying opportunities to increase its impact. In 2019, the Foundation launched the Distinguished Lee Scholar Award to recognize exceptional Lee Scholars who embody the values of integrity, leadership and service to others. That same year, the Foundation began working with national partners to advocate for key mental health policy initiatives at the state and federal levels.