Focus Areas
The Foundation makes contributions to charitable organizations exemplifying the core values of Joe C. Davis — the importance of personal initiative, perseverance, hard work, education, and entrepreneurship.
The Foundation seeks to invest in organizations with strong leadership; long-term, sustainable financial models; and deep expertise in their relevant areas of service.
Education
The Foundation supports a broad range of education initiatives that foster opportunity and promote long-term success. Investments in public K–12 education prioritize the creation and expansion of high-performing charter schools, along with the recruitment and development of top talent to help them thrive. The Foundation also invests in early childhood education, after-school and summer programs, and adult education.
Support for private, tuition-based K-12 schools is limited to Montgomery Bell Academy and Harpeth Hall School, with a focus on need-based scholarships for academically promising students.
Community and Social Services
The Foundation invests in programs that stabilize individuals and families in times of crisis and help them build self-sufficient lives. Funding supports initiatives that nurture children and youth, equip families with critical supports, and expand opportunities for individuals to achieve long-term success. Partners include organizations advancing workforce development, housing stability and basic needs, community-based resource centers, immigration and refugee services, and violence prevention and survivor support services.
Healthcare
The Foundation supports healthcare initiatives that expand access, improve affordability, and strengthen systems of care for uninsured, underinsured and/or vulnerable populations. Funding supports addiction recovery, mental health, crisis support, and community-based health services.