The Fry Foundation Board of Directors recognizes that we are living in a moment of dynamic change in Chicago and in philanthropy. With those changes, the meaning and intention behind words and phrases can evolve, providing us with an opportunity to use language that reflects new conditions. With that in mind, over the last few months, the Fry Foundation Board has engaged in conversations to update the Foundation’s mission statement. In addition to internal discussions, the Board invited staff and grantee partners to share how they see the Fry Foundation’s values reflected in funding priorities and how the work gets done. Those conversations consistently emphasized the Foundation’s guiding principles of racial equity, learning and fairness. Ultimately the Board wanted an updated mission statement that offered aspirational and hopeful language reflecting the challenges the Fry Foundation aims to address in partnership with our grantees. We are grateful to all those who contributed their time to helping us develop this updated mission statement. Our Mission: The Lloyd A. Fry Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of the people of Chicago faced with challenges rooted in the systems of inequity. We partner with effective nonprofit organizations that share our commitment to building a community in which all individuals and families have the opportunity to thrive. Our vision is a Chicago that offers education, opportunity, health, and hope for all.