Billionaire Philanthropist MacKenzie Scott Awards $2 Billion to 199 Nonprofits Nationwide

MacKenzie Scott, a billionaire philanthropist, has announced plans to give away $2 billion in grants to nearly 200 nonprofits across the United States. The organizations will receive funding for various initiatives, including affordable housing, jobs, child development, healthcare, and financial counseling.

Among the recipients are two Oregon-based nonprofits: Craft3, a community development organization that will receive $15 million, and The Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, which will receive $1.5 million. This is Scott’s second major grant to Craft3, following a $10 million donation in 2020.

Scott’s decision marks a shift towards more mission-driven giving, with the goal of maximizing help for those who need it most rather than lining the pockets of money managers. She plans to withdraw funds from her investment portfolio to support undercapitalized groups like women and people of color.

In March, Scott distributed $640 million to 361 nonprofits, including four organizations in Oregon and Southwest Washington. This latest round of giving follows earlier rounds of philanthropy by Scott, who has given away a total of $19.2 billion since starting her giving program in 2019.

Source: https://www.opb.org/article/2024/12/20/oregon-washington-nonprofits-receive-gifts-philanthropist-mackenzie-scott