The following is a message from Mrs. Teresa Heinz, chairman of the Heinz Family Philanthropies. Welcome, and thank you for visiting our Web site. I am pleased that you are interested in our organizations. We offer a great deal of information here that explains our philosophy on philanthropy, the issues we address, and the programs we support. If you do not find the information you seek, please use any of the "Contact Us" links provided throughout the site to request additional information. I learned the fundamentals of philanthropy—voluntary giving—growing up in Mozambique, East Africa. My father was a doctor, and I think a great one. Not only did he contribute his medical skills, he gave his time, his sincere interest, and real caring to all his patients. Being with him in the African bush, and watching him in surgery, I discovered the true value of individual involvement. Perhaps, because of that experience, I subscribe to the notion that philanthropy is a form of investing. A unique form, to be sure. And its bottom line is measured differently. But it is still, essentially, about allocating resources toward activities organized to achieve specific goals. As investors, we should expect results and we should know whether these goals are being met. The Heinz Family Philanthropies is focused on issues of human health and aging, the environment, and women's economic opportunities. And because public will and public policy are the basic contexts within which philanthropy operates today, we fund studies and facilitate research aimed at clarifying these issues. We provide the necessary background to policy makers, legislators, and others who influence social policy in order to make better decisions and write effective laws that regulate these vital issues. Where truly practical philanthropy is concerned, the opportunity to leverage resources is profound. For this reason, I encourage you to visit the sites of our partners and collaborators. After all, one of the basic tenants of our work ethic is that coordinated efforts produce greater impact and longer-lasting change. I am convinced we can shape the kind of world we live in, and the world we leave for future generations. Philanthropy isn't only about money and it doesn't have to be expensive. Some of our exciting grants require small amounts of money, but also a great deal of creativity and thought. Don't worry if you think you haven't the resources to make a real difference. In my experience, philanthropy is more about what's in your head and your heart than in your wallet. I am justifiably proud of our work, and I invite you to discover as much about it as possible. Let your visit here be the beginning of a productive, positive relationship with the Heinz Family Philanthropies. Sincerely, Teresa Heinz Chairman The Heinz Family Philanthropies Back to Top