Philanthropic 50: Calvin and Jane Cafritz

Real estate developer Calvin administers the family foundation named after his late parents, the Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation, which in 2017 gave $18.5 million to 409 organizations and causes. Jane Cafritz is the driving force behind the Domingo Cafritz Young Artists Program. The foundation contributed $1.2 million to Martha’s Table for a new headquarters in Ward 8, and general support, and $1.8 million to the National Gallery of Art to expand education programs and outreach. Among the 59 new grantees – at least for the foundation – were lesser grants to Life Asset Inc., which makes micro loans to small businesses, ScholarChips, the Anacostia Playhouse, Leveling the Playing Field, and Gearin’ Up Bicycles (job training). Since its founding in 1970, the Cafritz Foundation has given $465 million in grants to more than 950 recipients.