History - Tauck Family Foundation

1994

In 1994, the present Chairman of the Tauck Family Foundation, Arthur C. Tauck, Jr. founded the family foundation, originally known as the Arthur C. Tauck and Lee Anne Tauck Foundation, to foster a legacy of giving and community involvement in New England. Through the Foundation, the family supported a wide range of social services and created a catalyst that engaged the next generation of family members.

2000

With the goal of engaging the wider family in philanthropy, Arthur invited his five children and their spouses to participate in the governance of the Foundation. Arthur’s daughter, Liz Tauck Walters, served as the Foundation’s first Managing Director and the Foundation changed its name to the Tauck Foundation.

The Foundation embraced a new mission that centered on youth development grants for out-of-school time programs for low-income middle and high school-age students as well as grants to fund historic and cultural preservation projects in places visited by guests of Tauck, Inc., the family’s travel business.

2005

In recognition of their collective, multi-generational, philanthropic commitment, the family elects to change the Foundation’s name to the Tauck Family Foundation.

In addition to existing youth development grants, the Foundation launched Sparks, an innovative, travel-oriented, experiential summer program for middle school students from low-income families operated in partnership with seven independent youth organizations in Connecticut and New York.

The family’s travel company took over the management and stewardship of the preservation grants program.

2010

The Foundation initiated a new stage of growth under the leadership of its first non-family Executive Director and the board evolved to include three generations of Tauck family members.

2012

The Foundation Board and staff embarked on a robust Theory of Change process. In 2012, the Board adopted a new mission and approach to invest in building the capacity of organizations that develop social and emotional skills in children living in Bridgeport, CT. The Foundation selected its first cohort of investee organizations and initiatives.

2018

The Foundation Board reaffirmed the Foundation’s mission, vision, and commitment to promoting SEL in Bridgeport and the Foundation selected a second cohort of investee organizations and initiatives.

2019

The Foundation celebrated its 25th anniversary of family philanthropic giving.

Photo of Tauck Family Foundation 25th anniversary celebration

The Junior Board, consisting of members of the third generation of Tauck family members was established, signifying a new era of engagement within the family.

2021

The Foundation commissioned the development of a Case Study that outlines the experiences and outcomes associated with the Foundation’s social investing strategy in Bridgeport.

Tauck Family Foundation case study cover

View Case Study

The Foundation embarked on a strategic planning process that engaged the multi-generational Tauck family. As a result of this inclusive process, the Board of Directors unanimously approved a new mission, vision, and long-term outcomes.

2024

The Foundation celebrates its 30th year of family philanthropy.

History of Tauck Family Philanthropy

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