BUILDING PATHWAYS TO PROSPERITY

Investing In Opportunity, Hope, and Possibilities

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WHAT WE FUND
A woman in a red suit standing with arms crossed in a transportation maintenance facility, with a bus in the background.
A man in a bright yellow shirt, wearing sunglasses and holding a bell, is smiling and ringing it in front of an audience in a room with exposed brick walls and wooden beams. The audience is clapping and smiling.
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WHO WE ARE

Providing Stability. Expanding Opportunity. Empowering Potential. 

At the Owens Foundation, we believe every individual and family should have access to secure housing, economic stability, and the chance to realize their full potential.

We work through trusted partnerships with community organizations and nonprofits. Together, we provide essential funding and resources that help prevent homelessness, open doors of opportunity, and build dignity, hope, and long-term economic security for Chicago families.

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WHAT WE FUND

Guided by Values. Focused on Impact.

We direct our funding where we believe it creates the most meaningful change. Partnering with organizations with shared values and goals, we invest in potential, unlock opportunity, and expand possibilities.

We do not provide direct support to individuals.

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Workforce Development

Homelessness Support & Prevention

Community Outreach

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OUR IMPACT

40+ Years. $45 Million. Real Impact.

®Paula Clayton
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$45 Million
Donated

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100+ Projects Supported Each Year

40+ Years of sustained impact

OUR STORY

A Legacy of Compassion, Opportunity, and Hope

Founded in 1985 by Tom and Mary Owens, the Owens Foundation was inspired by their relationship with Mother Teresa and a deep belief in empathy, compassion, and human potential. For more than forty years, the Foundation has partnered with community and nonprofit organizations to support individuals and families facing homelessness and economic hardship—providing resources that foster stability, dignity, and long-term independence.

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Tom Owens

News

Featured
Cara Collective — Training Workers and Transforming Lives
Cara Collective — Training Workers and Transforming Lives

This article highlights how Cara Collective, a Chicago-based nonprofit founded by Tom Owens, helps people affected by poverty gain workforce skills, secure quality jobs, and build long-term employment through training, coaching, and employer partnerships. Over nearly three decades, Cara has placed thousands of people into jobs, with retention rates above national averages.

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