Through its grantmaking programs, the Foundation fulfills its commitment to supporting service, education, research, and advocacy projects that improve the quality of life for seniors. As the issues facing an aging population gain ever-greater urgency, the Foundation’s long experience is proving invaluable in addressing these issues and investing in innovative and invaluable solutions.
Foundation grants in previous three years include:
Special Initiatives
RRF Invests in Economic Security Tools for Vulnerable Older Adults
In August 2011, RRF Trustees awarded a three-year $1.125 million special initiative grant to the National Council on Aging to develop, test, and bring to scale Economic CheckUp, a free online tool that will assist millions of vulnerable older adults. The tool will provide older adults with a comprehensive assessment of their economic situation and guidance on the range of options that will lead to greater economic security. The tool will build upon NCOA’s successful Benefits CheckUp portal.
RRF Invests to Assure Improved Health Care for Patients with Advanced Illness
In May 2011, RRF Trustees awarded a three-year $597,765 special initiative grant to Oregon Health and Science University Foundation to catalyze the national program expansion of POLST (Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment). POLST was created to assure the treatment wishes of people with life-limiting illnesses are honored. POLST encourages an open discussion with patients, their families, and health care providers. As a result, a physician’s order is issued to accompany patients during emergencies when they transfer to other care locations.