The Retirement Research Foundation, based in Chicago, was established in the 1950s and endowed in 1978 by the late John D. MacArthur. The Foundation is devoted solely to serving the needs of older persons in the U.S. and enhancing their quality of life. From 1979 through 2008, RRF awarded more than 3,600 grants totaling nearly $200 million in its continuing efforts to improve life for older persons.

In 2008 the Foundation, reflecting changes in philanthropy and gerontology, restated its mission. The Foundation is committed to improving conditions for vulnerable older adults who are: frail from advanced age; economically disadvantaged and at greatest risk of falling through the safety net; or experience disparities related to race and ethnicity. The Foundation supports a range of programs and special initiatives designed to:

• Improve access to and quality of community-based and residential health and long-term care;
• Promote economic security for all older adults by strengthening social insurance, pension, and personal savings programs; and
• Support adequate training of, and compensation for, those already working directly with older persons and their families to bring higher quality of care to larger numbers of older adults.

The Foundation's historic interest in innovative projects continues.  RRF also has a strong interest in projects that implement or adapt proven models that address clearly identified needs and gaps.

Requests for support of projects focusing on advocacy, research, or education and training will be considered from anywhere in the U.S.  Direct service requests will be considered only from organizations in these seven states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Florida.  Deadlines are February 1, May 1, and August 1.

The Accessible Faith Program and the Organizational Capacity Building program are limited to applicants from the greater Chicago area.

If your organization is considering a multi-year request, please contact the Foundation staff in advance of submitting a proposal.

Back to top