TimELINE
During New Balance Foundation’s formative years, our Trustees quietly contributed to organizations that focused on the betterment of children and our society. As we’ve grown, our programs have evolved – to meet the needs of the community, to build collaborative relationships and to seed innovative programs.
1981
New Balance Foundation
Anne and Jim Davis demonstrate their unwavering commitment to New Balance communities by establishing New Balance Foundation and awarding $31,500 to local non‑profits.
1990s
Grassroots Approach
New Balance Foundation funds a number of grassroots, youth‑focused organizations as we focus in on supporting youth development and healthy lifestyles for at‑risk populations. Grants remain small until a $6.5 million company contribution to New Balance Foundation’s endowment in 1999 bolsters our giving capacity.
2000
Oak Square YMCA, Boston
New Balance Foundation pledges $250,000 towards the Oak Square YMCA’s Campaign for Keeping Families Strong, helping to fund a new facility and expand opportunities for Allston‑Brighton’s diverse communities.
2000
Boston Children's Museum
New Balance Foundation grants $1 million to Boston Children's Museum – our
first commitment of this magnitude – to support programs focused on discovery, learning and active play. Following this, in 2003, New Balance Athletics pledges $5 million to expand and renovate the Museum, incorporating green design elements and providing space for health and wellness exhibitions. One of these, the three-story-tall New Balance Foundation Climb, challenges kids to use their bodies to explore and challenge the boundaries of space.
