Who We Are: The Richard S. Shineman Foundation is a private foundation established in 2012 by the bequest of Richard S. Shineman, a tenured professor of chemistry at SUNY Oswego. As a man of many intellectual interests and a deep passion for his community, he made a provision in his will for the establishment of a foundation that will serve the broad needs of Oswego County and Central New York. Mission: The mission of the Richard S. Shineman Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in Oswego County. It will engage in charitable activities with integrity, honesty and compassion, and will pursue excellence through the highest professional grantmaking standards. The Foundation will use its resources to stimulate economic vitality, to encourage strong social bonds that strengthen the community, and to build the capacity of its not-for-profit partners. Vision: As a leading philanthropic organization, the Richard S. Shineman Foundation will be a transformative "Catalyst for Change" to create a vibrant community life for the Oswego County region. Focus Areas: The Foundation seeks to provide grants in the following areas: (1) education; (2) human services; (3) civic benefit; (4) arts and culture; (5) health; (6) environment; and (7) historic preservation. Focus Communities: The Foundation will make grants to organizations that are located in or benefit Oswego County through specific projects or programs.