The Straus Foundation centennial offers a moment to look back, both to honor our founders—Aaron and Lillie Straus—and to consider the values, vision and vital decisions that forged this organization across decades.
Our work has always been rooted in the Jewish value of “tikkun olam,” Hebrew for repairing the world—for many, a cornerstone of their Jewish identity, representing a commitment to philanthropy, social justice and loving kindness. As wave after wave of Jewish immigrants and refugees arrived in Baltimore, Aaron and Lillie heeded the call to welcome the stranger, then shaped their wealth into Maryland’s first incorporated foundation.
Their prescient vision continues to steer our philanthropy. They cared deeply about children and families, newcomers to our city, individual health and innovations that foster community wellness. Those interests still guide our work, year after year.
A century of courageous giving charted our course in Baltimore. We aimed to take risks where other funders could not; make big, multi-year bets on good ideas directed by great leaders; and build from scratch when it would help our city.
This site offers a glimpse of how Aaron’s and Lillie’s Foundation has held fast to their legacy over 100 years. In truth, the Strauses might wonder why we must continue to solve problems they addressed a century ago. But we hope they would take pride in an organization built for exactly this moment in time.
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