Throughout 2009, the Joyce Foundation staff and board have worked together to address the challenges that come with an economic downturn. Concern for our grantees has remained our top priority as we chart a course for 2010 and beyond. 

Since the beginning of the year, our nation has witnessed a mix of negative and positive economic news-for example, rising unemployment figures along with gains in the stock market create uncertainty in our financial outlook. We are encouraged by the actions of national leaders who continue to offer

large-scale initiatives to bolster state and local economies. Policy advances in clean energy, water quality, K-12 education, and education and training for adult workers have been swift and decisive. 

At Joyce, we feel optimistic about the momentum we see in many policy developments, but we are also deeply concerned about the economic struggles faced in our Midwest region. At its most recent meeting, the Foundation’s board of directors authorized a 2010 grants budget that will allow us to closely maintain the grant disbursement level of 2009. Like other philanthropic organizations, we expect to have difficult choices to make in the future. But, we will maintain our commitment to targeting our resources to our key program areas, working effectively and efficiently to make a positive impact on citizens living in and around the Great Lakes.

We look forward to continuing this dialogue with our grantees and partners. Please feel free to contact us if you have any feedback (70 W. Madison St., Ste. 2750, Chicago, IL, 60602; info@joycefdn.org; 312/782-2464).

Ellen S. Alberding

President

The Joyce Foundation