Helping people and animals in need through pride in work and education, since 2015.
FOUNDER’S LETTER
I come from a rather humble background. My father was a sixth grade educated Pennsylvania coal miner who suffered a crushed pelvis in the mines and then worked in a sheltered work shop in Binghamton, NY later in life. My mother worked in a factory putting jackets on books. Together, they never made $20,000 in any year. My father taught me work ethic and to never quit. My mother taught me how to save and manage a budget
Armed with a strong foundation from my parents, educational experiences at St. Lawrence and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and valuable early career experiences at Bache & Co., Shearson Hayden-Stone, and Marine Midland Bank, I was able to start Karpus Investment Management in May of 1986. Thirty years ago, I could never have imagined the success that we have achieved. To me, life is all about friends, family and helping those in need.
Therefore, I have started The Karpus Family Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation, with an emphasis on helping people and animals in need. Promoting education is also a goal, with the ultimate objective of helping people live a productive life. My father never realized that the sheltered workshop where he worked was subsidized by donations. He took pride in the fact that he was working and earning a paycheck. This pride and sense of satisfaction is something I hope to rekindle in people who benefit from the Karpus Family Foundation.
Sincerely,
George W. Karpus
President of the Karpus Family Foundation
HOW WE FUND
Eligibility:
The requesting organization must be a 501(c)(3) or equivalent whose programs/projects meet the Karpus Family Foundation’s funding purposes and key factors for funding.
Procedure:
- Letter of Inquiry – LOI submission is required through the online grant management portal which can be accessed by clicking the Application tab on this page. The LOI allows organizations to propose a grant idea that can be assessed for funding eligibility.
- LOIs can be submitted at any time for review & will be reviewed within 21 days of receipt.
The organization will then be contacted regarding the status of the LOI and how to proceed if you are invited to submit a full grant application. - If the organization is invited to submit a full grant application, it will then become accessible in the online grant management portal.
- At that time the organization can begin completing the grant application, save any work in progress as needed, and submit the application at any time.
- Applications are accepted by invitation year-round.
Please note: An invitation to complete an application is not a guarantee of approval.
Timeline:
Applications are considered during one of our three annual grantmaking cycles.
Submission deadlines are due the 1st day of the month prior (ex. Board meeting is March 7th; the completed application is due February 1st).
Specific deadline dates will be found on the application form.
Applications can be submitted through the online grant management portal which can be accessed by clicking the Application tab on this page.
Annual Grant Cycles:
1st Cycle: March
2nd Cycle: June
3rd Cycle: September
FUNDING PURPOSES
A. Training and assisting disabled individuals and disabled armed forces veterans to become productive workers and lead productive lives.
B. Preventing the abuse to women and children and providing medical and health services to such abused women and children who cannot otherwise afford it.
C. Fostering the role of education in preventing community violence and reducing the threat of criminals to society.
D. Preventing cruelty to animals and caring of displaced animals; provided, however, that no support shall be provided to medical charities that cause suffering to animals.
E. Providing anti-abortion incentives and right to life education to the general Christian/Judeo public.
F. Supporting medical institutions that provide leading edge treatment and research.
G. Providing educational assistance in the form of grants and scholarships to individuals of a charitable class, provided, however that grants or scholarships shall not be awarded either to individuals who are employed by the Foundation or to the children of individuals who are employed by the Foundation.
H. Supporting organizations that promote: sound, conservative economic principals and education, free markets, capitalism, and the United States Constitution.
Key Factors for Funding
Decreased Reliance on Governmental Support:
The Karpus Family Foundation values organizations that demonstrate independence, sustainability, and efficient use of resources beyond governmental funding sources. While public funding can play an important role, preference may be given to organizations that maintain diversified revenue streams, strong community or private support, and the ability to address important community needs with limited reliance on ongoing government assistance.
The Foundation particularly values organizations that demonstrate measurable impact, operational efficiency, and strong mission-focused leadership.
Geographic Areas of Focus
The Foundation primarily supports organizations serving:
- The Greater Rochester, New York region;
- Florida;
- The Greater Cleveland, Ohio region.
Additional consideration may be given to organizations operating elsewhere in New York State, as well as select regional or national organizations that closely align with the Foundation’s charitable purposes and funding priorities.
Responsible Fiscal Management
The Karpus Family Foundation believes charitable dollars should be managed with discipline, accountability, and long-term thinking. The Foundation itself was built through decades of prudent investment management and responsible financial stewardship by George W. Karpus, and those same principles continue to guide the Foundation’s philanthropic philosophy today.
The Foundation seeks to partner with organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, operational efficiency, transparent financial practices, and thoughtful stewardship of the resources already entrusted to them. Funding decisions consider not only mission alignment, but also an organization’s ability to responsibly manage assets, control unnecessary overhead, maintain appropriate reserves, and maximize measurable community impact.
Preference may be given to organizations that:
- Demonstrate strong fiscal discipline and budget efficiency;
- Direct the substantial majority of expenditures toward mission-based programs and services;
- Maintain transparent and sustainable financial practices;
- Demonstrate thoughtful reserve, cash, and investment management.
As part of the due diligence process, applicants may be asked to provide information regarding reserves, investments, liquidity, and related financial stewardship practices. While this level of review may be uncommon for some organizations, the Foundation believes responsible management of charitable resources is an important part of long-term nonprofit sustainability and leadership.
The Foundation does not require or recommend the use of any specific investment manager, advisor, financial institution, or investment strategy.
THE GEORGE W. KARPUS '68 SCHOLARSHIP
The Karpus Scholarship supports the best and brightest students from Chenango Forks or Greene Central High Schools who are interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Finance, Business in the Liberal Arts (BUSLA), and any future majors we may develop that are focused on business. The Scholarship is awarded to students based on their high school grade point average (GPA) and helps to reduce the overall cost of attending St. Lawrence University.
Additional Information:
For more information on the financial aid packages available and eligibility requirements, please see the full Karpus Scholarship document at the link below:
Scholarship Information
Decreased Reliance on Governmental Support:
The foundation focuses on impactful community projects filling gaps not covered by government funding.
Preference is given to organizations with less reliance on governmental support.
Geographic areas:
Preference is given to organizations that are operating in the Greater Rochester area, Florida, and Cleveland, OH. With some consideration for other areas in New York State as well as national organizations that align with our funding purposes.
Responsible Fiscal Management:
Our Board
George Karpus, President
Kathy Karpus, Vice President / Secretary
Rodd Riesenberger, Treasurer
Debbie Haehl, Director
Donald Haehl, Director
Paul Lipari, Director
Tony Mirrione, Director
Joan Riesenberger, Director
Gerry Wenzke, Director
Alana Haehl, Next Generation Philanthropy Associate
Kathy May, Administrative Assistant
Our Donations
The statistics below also include the “Karpus Fund” through the Rochester Area Community Foundation. Our yearly goal is to donate $1,000,000 through the RACF in addition to $1,000,000 through KFF.
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Apply
If you are interested in seeking a grant from the Karpus Family Foundation, our Letter of Inquiry (LOI) and application can be completed at our online portal through this link. You will need to complete BOTH the LOI and the application for a grant proposal.
REQUEST INFORMATION
If you’d like to reach out to someone on our board, but aren’t ready to apply or have a different request, please fill out our form.
GRANT RECIPIENTS
We have had the privilege of working with over 30 nonprofit organizations, including…
Miracle Field
Building Homes for Heroes
Camp Good Days
Gigis Playhouse
Veterans Outreach Center
Home Base
Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters (WASPS)
Building Homes for Heroes
Camp Good Days
Gigis Playhouse
Veterans Outreach Center
Home Base
Webster Association of Senior Program Supporters (WASPS)
Heritage Home for Women
Angels of Mercy
Angels of Mercy
EDWINS
Cameron Communit
Ministries
Humane Society of Rochester
Homeless Hounds
Satchel’s Last Resort
Puppies Behind Bars
Homeless Hounds
Satchel’s Last Resort
Puppies Behind Bars
Focus Pregnancy Help Center
Alliance Defending Freedom
Caring Choices Pregnancy Help Center
Alliance Defending Freedom
Caring Choices Pregnancy Help Center
NET Research Foundation
Cancer Alliance of Naples
Cancer Alliance of Naples
Hope Hall
Friends of Breakthrough Schools
Immokalee Foundation
Eagle Forum Foundation
Friends of Breakthrough Schools
Immokalee Foundation
Eagle Forum Foundation
Leadership Institute
Media Research Center
Daily Caller
Judicial Watch
Prager University Foundation
Project Veritas
Media Research Center
Daily Caller
Judicial Watch
Prager University Foundation
Project Veritas
The Karpus Family Foundation Board recently had the privilege of visiting Edwins Leadership & Restaurant Institute in Cleveland, Ohio. Joining the visit were President George Karpus and Directors Rodd Riesenberger, Don Haehl, and Bruce Perry, and we left inspired—not just by an incredible meal, but by an extraordinary vision for transforming lives and strengthening an entire community.
Founder, President & CEO Brandon Chrostowski shared the story behind the name EDWINS. While Edwin is Brandon’s middle name, it also stands for “Education Wins.” Those two words perfectly capture the organization’s mission: education creates opportunity, opportunity restores dignity, and dignity changes lives.
What Brandon has built extends far beyond an award-winning restaurant. EDWINS is a tuition-free culinary and hospitality institute that gives formerly incarcerated men and women a true second chance through professional training, housing, counseling, childcare, mentorship, and life skills. The results are remarkable, with a 95% job placement rate and an impressive 1.4% recidivism rate, demonstrating that investing in people produces lasting change.
Equally inspiring is Brandon’s commitment to the surrounding neighborhood. We toured the beautiful community garden, children’s playground, basketball courts, and other spaces that have been created to serve local families and provide a safe, welcoming place for the community to gather. His vision isn’t simply about helping individuals—it is about revitalizing an entire neighborhood and creating hope for generations to come.
The evening concluded with an outstanding dinner prepared and served by EDWINS students. Every course reflected not only exceptional culinary talent, but also the pride, confidence, and professionalism that come from being given a genuine opportunity to succeed.
At the Karpus Family Foundation, we seek organizations that create measurable, long-term impact. EDWINS exemplifies our philosophy of providing a hand up, not a handout. Their work restores lives, strengthens families, and builds healthier communities through education, accountability, and opportunity.
A sincere thank you to Brandon Chrostowski, and the entire EDWINS team for your gracious hospitality and for allowing us to witness your incredible mission firsthand. We are honored to support an organization that truly proves Education Wins.
#KarpusFamilyFoundation #EDWINS #EducationWins #SecondChances #CommunityImpact #Leadership #ChangingLives #HandUpNotHandOut ... See MoreSee Less
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Amazing work transforming lives and strengthening communities 💚
Awesome
Today, Karpus Family Foundation President George Karpus and Directors Rodd Riesenberger, Don Haehl, and Bruce Perry had the privilege of visiting Friendship Circle Cleveland, where we were warmly welcomed by Rabbi Yossi Marozov, and Development Director Eli Shomer.
Our visit provided an opportunity to see firsthand the extraordinary impact Friendship Circle has on children, teens, adults, and families throughout the Cleveland community. Through innovative programming, meaningful relationships, and unwavering compassion, they create an environment where individuals of all abilities are valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.
This summer alone, Friendship Circle is serving more than 120 children through its camp programs, bringing joy, friendship, and life-changing experiences to so many families. Witnessing the smiles on the children’s faces and learning about the organization’s mission reminded us that some of the most meaningful investments we can make are those that strengthen people and communities.
At the Karpus Family Foundation, we believe that strong communities are built when every individual has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and belong. Supporting organizations that foster opportunity, dignity, and meaningful connections aligns with our commitment to investing in programs that create lasting, measurable impact.
We extend our sincere appreciation to Rabbi Yossi, Eli, and the entire Friendship Circle team for their warm hospitality and for sharing the remarkable work they do each day. We left inspired by their dedication and grateful for the opportunity to learn more about an organization that is changing lives one friendship at a time.
#KarpusFamilyFoundation #FriendshipCircle #CommunityImpact #OpportunityForAll #InvestingInPeople #MakingADifference ... See MoreSee Less
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KFF Directors Joan and Rodd Riesenberger had the privilege of attending the The Potter's Hands Foundation ROC Dinner & Dessert Auction last night, and we left truly inspired.
The evening was emotional, powerful, and a reminder of the incredible work being done to help women who are survivors of trafficking, abuse, addiction, and severe trauma rebuild their lives.
One of the survivors, bravely shared her story in front of everyone attending. Her courage, strength, and honesty moved the entire room and put a very real face on the importance of this mission.
What stood out most is that Potter’s Hands Foundation is doing far more than simply providing shelter. They are addressing the mental health, recovery, structure, accountability, and long-term healing these women need in order to survive, recover, and ultimately thrive as healthy and productive members of society.
This organization is truly saving lives.
Thank you to everyone at Potter’s Hands Foundation for an incredible evening and for the life-changing work you do every day. You should all be very proud.
www.thepottershandsfoundation.org/
#PottersHandsFoundation #HumanTraffickingAwareness #Recovery #MentalHealth #Community #Hope #Restoration ... See MoreSee Less
The Potter's Hands Foundation, Inc. | Non-profit | New York, United States
www.thepottershandsfoundation.org
Human Trafficking Safe House NY The Potter's Hands Foundation is dedicated to providing a safe, secure environment, in which survivors of sex trafficking and sexual exploitation receive mental health ...0 CommentsComment on Facebook
KFF is a proud supporter of Stay In Step Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Center. for many years and we will be celebrating this milestone with you. ... See MoreSee Less
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The project at the Lollypop Farm and humane society is progressing nicely!
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This makes my heart so happy 🥰
Exciting progress is happening at Lollypop Farm! 🐾
Construction of the Karpus Family Foundation Learning Center at Lollypop Farm is moving along beautifully, and we’re thrilled to see this important project taking shape.
This new learning center will help expand humane education programs, bringing students, families, and community members together to learn about compassion, responsible pet ownership, and the importance of caring for animals.
The Karpus Family Foundation is proud to support organizations that strengthen our communities and promote kindness—both to people and to animals.
We can’t wait to see the finished center and the positive impact it will have for years to come.
#KarpusFamilyFoundation #LollypopFarm #HumaneEducation #CommunityImpact
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The Karpus Family Foundation has done so much for our community! Thank you for your generosity. 🙏
Milestones like this are a testament to the power of kindness and generosity ! Love this ❤️
Photos from GOTR Rochester's post ... See MoreSee Less
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A few of the KFF board members. President and CEO George Karpus surrounded by Directors Paul Lipari, Don Haehl, and Rodd Riesenberger ... See MoreSee Less
11 CommentsComment on Facebook
Congratulations George Karpus! Thank you for all that you do in our community♥️
It was a wonderful event honoring George!
How wonderful ! Congratulations To George! Soo deserving! ❤️
Congrats George!
Congratulations George! Many thanks for all you do!
Great stuff from an amazing foundation!
Awesome and well deserved!
Congratulations 👏
Awesome !!! Congratulations and THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO !
Congratulations George and so deserved ‼️❤️
Kudos to George!!
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