Grantmaking Focus
Developing Future Leaders: the giving priorities of the Foundation include organizations that will positively impact the spiritual, physical, and intellectual growth of compassionate, courageous leaders of tomorrow.
A teacher has a conversation with a student. By maintaining low classroom ratios, teachers are able to foster each child’s sense of self-worth. Credit: Childcare Resources
Nonprofit Organizations
The purpose of the David E. Retik Christopher D. Mello Foundation is to perpetuate the passion and dedication Dave and Chris had for humanity.
The Retik Mello Foundation has a range of philanthropic interests and will make grants only to nonprofit charitable organizations that are tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals, yet the Retik and Mello families do consider new organizations from time to time.
Occasionally, grants are made outside the stated parameters, but that is at the invitation of the Foundation. Interested organizations should submit a brief letter of interest by December 1st. Funding decisions are made annually in the Spring.
Although we work together as a team, the Retik Mello Foundation divides the funds we grant between each family. This enables us to make decisions based on the interests of both David and Chris, and for each family to honor them in their own ways.
Studying together
STUDENTS
Several scholarships are given annually in memory of David and Chris. Each has different criteria ...