Citadel Founder and CEO First Ever to Extend Second Challenge Grant to Support Fight Against Poverty
Robin Hood, New York City’s largest poverty fighting organization, announced a $15 million challenge grant from Citadel founder and CEO Ken Griffin.
Robin Hood funds 200+ of the most effective nonprofits annually. Griffin’s donation will support Robin Hood’s work to help struggling New Yorkers build better lives for themselves and their families. It will help the organization house, feed, train, educate, advise and care for men, women and children living in poverty. The donation will also inspire others to give in the lead up to and at Robin Hood’s May 15 annual fundraiser at the Javits Center.
Griffin, a longtime philanthropist and supporter of Robin Hood, has donated to the organization every year since 1994. His first challenge grant was for $1 million in 2001. He is the first person ever to give a second challenge grant to Robin Hood.
Because Robin Hood’s board covers administrative expenses, every dollar donated is invested in poverty-fighting programs with the greatest potential for lasting impact.
“Being poor is never easy, but it’s particularly challenging now, so the need is urgent,” said Wes Moore, CEO of Robin Hood. “We’re truly honored Ken Griffin is putting his leadership and philanthropy behind Robin Hood’s mission and helping pave the way for success in the future.”
“For over twenty years Ken’s generous support has enabled Robin Hood to help hundreds of thousands of people in need. To see a Chicago-based philanthropist help struggling New Yorkers is an inspiration,” said Larry Robbins, chair of Robin Hood’s board.
“Robin Hood exemplifies the power of applying a venture capital mindset to philanthropy. The challenge grant is a springboard for Robin Hood’s leadership to go out and raise the money that we need to fight poverty,” said Citadel Founder and CEO Ken Griffin. “I’m excited to see what the Robin Hood team will accomplish under Wes’ leadership in the years to come.”