Partners
ECLC and the Summer Institute have been made possible by the Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation, to whom we extend our heartfelt appreciation.
The Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation
The Peter and Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation is a family foundation that supports and collaborates with nonprofit organizations and community partners that share its mission of helping children, adolescents, and young people affected by intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, mental health issues, and substance use disorders. Their work is focused in Western New York and Eastern Massachusetts, areas that are important to the Tower family.
In keeping with the Tower Family’s original vision, the foundation believes that every young person deserves a chance to reach their highest potential and a chance to overcome barriers to their version of success. We know that many of the individuals who are impacted by these issues are often overlooked and stigmatized, creating additional challenges.
We see our role as more than just a funder. In addition to financial support, we help organizations build their capacity to help people, we create connections between collaborators and resources, and we leverage our assets with other funders. Our goal is to make the greatest possible impact on young people striving to achieve their own definition of success.
The Tower Foundation envisions equitable communities where all young people are included, accepted, and valued; and are confident in themselves. The Tower Foundation highly values: Diverse Voices – The foundation listens to and learns from those with different points of view and perspectives. They seek to be proximate with the communities they serve – continually engaging in respectful conversation and incorporating what they hear into our work. Collaboration – The foundation understands that in order to make progress, they must build relationships with their partners and share knowledge, resources, expertise, and strategies. Innovation – The foundation embraces change and is willing to take risks, recognizing the potential for transformative effect. They look for opportunities to try new and creative strategies and encourage others to do the same. Perseverance – The foundation recognizes that change work can be slow and challenging. They are committed to the long-term improvement of organizations and communities. Picture
Essex County Community Foundation
Essex County Community Foundation inspires philanthropy that strengthens the communities of Essex County by managing charitable assets, strengthening and supporting nonprofits, and engaging in strategic community leadership initiatives. Our ultimate goal is to improve the quality of life in the 34 towns and cities of Essex County.
We are also grateful to the Van Otterloo Foundation and to Linzee Coolidge for their magnanimous support of the Essex County Learning Community, and specifically, the 2020 ECLC Summer Institute.
