The Good Heart Work Smart Foundation, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization, was founded in 2006 and the following principles drive our commitment to the Oak Park River Forest community:
- Serving local youth and local youth programming, nurturing our future leaders
- Bringing cutting edge business, technology and philanthropy practices to the table to achieve greater impact
- We encourage collaboration of not-for-profit entities, reducing repetition of effort, promoting shared resources
- We practice hands on philanthropy, engaging with many local organizations in community activities
- We participate in ongoing learning and educational activities, and support others in their efforts to use learning opportunities to reach their goals
- We embrace self-directed and cooperative leadership, encouraging others to share their time, talents and treasures, giving back our local community
GHWS participates in the following activities:
- Grants dedicated to local charitable organizations
- Co-sponsored events in our community
- Active partnerships with local organizations
- Participation on local NFP boards and committees
Growing up in Oak Park, we received a developmental recipe that we wish to share with future community leaders:
- Safe neighborhoods
- Excellent education system ( via District 97 and District 200)
- Athletic opportunities offered through the Park District and at the YMCA
- Role models and mentors
As third generation Oak Park residents from large families, these qualities provided us with a level playing field for future opportunities. Our mission statement expresses our hope to share those treasures with others:
The Good Heart Work Smart Foundation inspires people to reach out and make a difference in the lives of others. Our foundation believes that giving and sharing inspires giving and sharing! Our foundation grants awards, services, and strategic resources to local organizations that are focused on youth programming. We are constantly striving to find new and innovative ways to serve our community.