Gulf Coast Community Foundation Surpasses $625 Million in Grants and Impact

Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast) has surpassed $625 million in grants awarded since its founding in 1995 – marking another milestone in the foundation’s three-decade history of bold and proactive philanthropy.   

“What began as one community’s vision has grown into a lasting force for good,” said Phillip Lanham, President | CEO of Gulf Coast. “Every dollar granted reflects the power of partnership and the generosity of people who believe in creating a stronger, more vibrant region for all.”  

Established with a $100 million endowment from the sale of the Venice Hospital, Gulf Coast now stewards nearly 1,000 charitable funds that support a wide range of causes – from education to the arts to environmental preservation, workforce development, and health and human services.  

Since awarding its first grants nearly 30 years ago, Gulf Coast has catalyzed transformational initiatives across the region – from expanding access to mental health care and workforce training to preserving the beauty and vitality of our coastal environment. 

“This milestone belongs to our donors, partners, and nonprofit leaders” Lanham continued. “Fueled by their generosity, creativity, and perseverance, we’re building something extraordinary—and this is only the beginning.”  

Guided by the values of collaboration, curiosity, grit, authenticity, and a trailblazing spirit, Gulf Coast continues to connect passion to purpose, driving solutions that make a lasting difference across our region.