The Lee Foundation
The organization is a private foundation dedicated to funding charitable activities primarily in Central Florida. Its mission focuses on supporting a variety of causes, including health-related initiatives, youth development, and community services. The foundation demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing issues such as Alzheimer's support, food insecurity, and disability advocacy. It primarily serves nonprofit organizations that provide essential services and support to vulnerable populations in the region.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A small to mid-sized 501(c)(3) providing community-focused services in Central Florida (health, Alzheimer’s support, food security, youth or disability services) seeking modest operating or program support.
Good Fit
- • Located in Central Florida or serving that metro area.
- • 501(c)(3) status and ability to submit the requested verification.
- • Request size consistent with past awards (typically in the low-thousands).
- • Clear, concise letter-of-request describing purpose and community impact.
- • Willingness to follow the January 31 annual deadline and mail materials.
Geography
Giving is overwhelmingly concentrated in Florida (about 99% of dollars), with only a handful of out-of-state grants; the funder functions as a local Florida grantmaker.
Recipient Variety
The foundation funded roughly 53–65 distinct recipients each year (56 in 2024), showing a broad and diverse recipient set rather than a tiny closed circle; financial concentration is low (top five ~18%).
New Applicants
Across three years the foundation shows turnover (about 10 new recipients in 2024, roughly 18% new that year) and it publishes a concrete letter application route and deadline, so unfamiliar local applicants appear plausibly able to enter the portfolio.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
