Robert R. McCormick Foundation

To advance the causes of education, civic engagement, and free expression through strategic investments that promote democratic values and strengthen communities.

voice bigger_we families neighborhood

Assets: $1.5B · Annual Giving: $75M+ · Est. 1955

Website (312) 445-5000

Funding Priorities

Families

Education Access(K-12 Education)

Voice

Civic EducationDemocratic Participation(Civic Education)Policy Advocacy(Policy Research)Youth Leadership(Youth Civic Engagement)

Money

Community Investment(Asset Building)

Leadership

Marjorie Craig Benton

board

David Hiller

executive

The Journey

32 connected resources across 5 levels

Trail depth

Level 1

Get CuriousRead, watch, explore

We are building resources for this level

Level 2

Find Your PeopleMeet orgs, neighbors, groups16 resources

Level 3

Show UpEvents, meetings, volunteering

We are building resources for this level

Level 4

Go DeeperTraining, sustained involvement8 resourcesYou are here

PolicyRecognizing Homeschool GraduatesThis federal bill makes sure that students who are homeschooled get official recognition when they finish their education. This makes it easier for them to apply to colleges and get jobs, just like students from other schools.

PolicyNational Speech and Debate Education DayThis federal resolution names March 6, 2026 as National Speech and Debate Education Day. Speech and debate programs help students learn to think clearly, speak with confidence, and participate in their communities.

PolicySecure Customs Revenue CollectionThis federal bill fixes the way customs collects money when goods come into the country through ports. It closes gaps that let some shipments avoid paying what they owe, which helps keep trade fair for everyone.

+5 more at this level

Level 5

Make Your MoveAdvocacy, organizing, creating8 resources

Focus Areas

K-12 Education Civic Education Policy Research Asset Building Youth Civic Engagement

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