The Foundation’s mission of land conservation and artistic vitality for communities in the Chicago region and the Lowcountry of South Carolina honors the values and legacy of the founders by focusing on two of the conditions crucial to vital human communities: a healthy natural environment and artistic expression.

Natural land is scarce, threatened and, once lost, may be gone for all time. The arts are vulnerable to changing societal priorities as well as controversies about their value and their characteristics of excellence. The foundation seeks to sustain communities by supporting long-term partnerships that bring together people from diverse backgrounds who value and nurture its mission. The foundation calls upon its history, community connections, and experience to be an active participant and innovator on these issues.