Overview
The Obama Foundation is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization headquartered in Chicago, founded in 2014. Its mission is to inspire, empower, and connect people to bring about positive global change. Central to its initiatives is the development of the Barack Obama Presidential Center, a world-class museum, public library, and community gathering space set to open in 2026 on the South Side of Chicago.
Mission & Programs
The Foundation's mission is to cultivate an active democratic culture by engaging the public in meaningful initiatives. Some of its key programs include:
- My Brother's Keeper Alliance: Focuses on improving outcomes for boys and young men of color through community engagement.
- Girls Opportunity Alliance: Led by Michelle Obama, supports educational opportunities for girls worldwide. It recently committed $500,000 to girl-serving organizations in Chicago.
- Leaders Program: Inspires and connects regional cohorts of changemakers globally.
- Scholarships and Programs: Includes the Obama Foundation Scholars Program at Columbia University that provides opportunities for emerging leaders worldwide.
- Voyager Scholarship: Targets future global leaders committed to public service.
Leadership
Executive Team
- Valerie Jarrett: Chief Executive Officer and Board Member, previously a Senior Advisor to President Obama. Known for her advocacy for equality and justice.
- Alfreda Bradley-Coar: Executive Vice President, Chief Legal & People Officer. She possesses extensive experience in corporate leadership and strategy.
- Robbin Cohen: Executive Vice President of the Obama Presidential Center. Has over 35 years of experience in corporate strategy.
- Laura Lucas Magnuson: Executive Vice President of Global Programs, with expertise in international relations.
- Daniel McGregor: Senior Vice President of Development, leading fundraising essential for the Foundation's operations.
Board Members
- Martin Nesbitt (Chair)
- Penny Pritzker: Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce
- David Plouffe: Political strategist who managed President Obama's 2008 campaign
- Glenn Hutchins, J. Kevin Poorman, John W. Rogers, Jr., Juan Salgado, Julianna Smoot, Robert Wolf, Sean Parker, and others advancing the Foundation's mission through strategic oversight.
Financials and Recognition
The Obama Foundation is recognized as a credible nonprofit with a four-star rating on Charity Navigator, reflecting its financial health and commitment to transparency and accountability. It attracts support from leading philanthropic entities and community leaders, solidifying its reputation for impactful activity.
Key Initiatives
The Obama Foundation's initiatives emphasize environmental sustainability, youth development, and mentorship. Green designs are integral to the Barack Obama Presidential Center. The Foundation also facilitates mentorship through its Obama Alumni network, focused on empowering the next generation of leaders.
Comparative Analysis
Within the philanthropy landscape, the Obama Foundation differentiates itself with a focus on community-level change and youth empowerment. Unlike the global health emphasis of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation or the Rockefeller Foundation's focus on climate change and opportunity promotion, the Obama Foundation prioritizes nurturing future leaders and fostering democratic culture. This specific mission underscores its role in driving localized yet globally impactful transformation, supported by visionary leadership.
