Where Heritage, Humanity, and the Horizon Meet.

The Schoonmaker Foundation partners with nonprofits by funding projects in four areas we care deeply about: competitive sailing, arts and culture, animal welfare, and healthcare initiatives.

OVER

33

years since founding

47

projects funded

27.9

million $$ in lifetime grants

Who we are

Founded in 1992 by sailor and community leader James M. “Ding” Schoonmaker and his wife, the Schoonmaker Foundation is today guided by the enduring leadership of his widow, Patrice Schoonmaker. Patrice carries forward Ding’s philanthropic vision with care and intention, ensuring the values that shaped his life — a love of sailing, a deep sense of community, their love of animals and belief in cultural vitality — continue to guide the foundation’s work. For more than three decades, the foundation has supported nonprofit organizations across the United States, from advancing competitive sailing and athlete development to strengthening healthcare institutions and preserving historical and cultural heritage.

Through Patrice’s stewardship, the Schoonmaker Foundation remains a living legacy — one rooted in generosity, excellence, and lasting community impact.

How we determine grantees

Grantees are considered if they fall within the scope of our four pillars of giving, can provide proof as a 501c3 organization in good standing, and can specify how our support will impact the success of your organization or project. Decisions are reviewed by the Trustees of the Schoonmaker Foundation on a quarterly basis and decisions will be returned after a full review to eligible applicants.