Overview

Vesper Society believes in a simple idea: a just society begins when everyone is well and respected as a human being. Every day we link arms with leaders and communities to uplift everyone through service, break down barriers, and elevate community voices. In doing so, we are closer to our vision of a world that protects human dignity and enhances human potential.

We don’t have prescribed formulas for solving complex social issues. We actively listen, we are flexible, and we adapt our approach to each situation so that every community we support receives what it really needs for maximum impact. We do this by supporting underserved urban and rural communities, by providing funding that allows communities to explore options and find new solutions, and by amplifying the voices of local leaders.

Why Vesper?

We care deeply about our world, and our mission is to promote social justice locally and globally by addressing critical social issues, including the provision of health services for the underserved.

Rooted in faith traditions going back thousands of years, we embrace the notion of loving one another as we love ourselves. It is a leap of faith that today finds expression in the belief that we can create a better future through acts, small and large, of compassion and hope.

By being in service to others, our work can facilitate change and be truly uplifting to people, organizations, and communities.

We invite you to explore our website and learn about people and places in remote frontiers and in your own back yard.

Here are some commonly asked questions about Vesper Society.

Is Vesper Society a religious organization?

Vesper Society has its roots in the Lutheran tradition, but is not part of a formal religious body.  In its history we have often initiated conversations to engage people of faith to serve and help those in need.

We enjoy the fact that our name comes from a restaurant in Philadelphia. You can read more about this in the “Our First Fifty Years” section.

How does Vesper Society operate?

Vesper Society has an endowment and implements its own programs and initiatives. We also partner with nonprofit organizations and governmental entities to achieve our mission.

We work with project partners who are aligned with our organizational values of service, stewardship, community, compassion, and justice.

Does Vesper Society give grants?

Vesper Society is a private operating foundation, not a grantmaking foundation. We do not have a grants program, so we do not accept unsolicited proposals. The Foundation Center is an excellent source of information for those seeking grants.

What does Vesper Society bring to its partnerships?

Vesper Society introduces new ideas, expertise, and resources to our partners that enable them to improve the situations of their communities.

You can read more about our approach in the “Projects and Partners” section.

Where does Vesper Society work?

For the next several years, Vesper Society will focus on California, our home base. Historically, we have done international work in the Caribbean, Africa, and Central America, and our network extends to Europe, Middle East, and Asia.

Are my donations tax-deductible?

Yes. Contributions to operating foundations are deductible on the same basis as contributions to public charities.