The Marcus Foundation Information

The Marcus Foundation was created in 2009 when it became independent from The Grace R. and Alan D. Marcus Foundation that was originally founded in 1990. Both foundations continue to share fundamental values, operating principles and commitments. Alan Marcus, a corporate and estates attorney, worked closely with Theodore P. Halperin and Daniel Soba (original trustees of the Foundation). Mr. Marcus served in the United States Army during World War II, was an avid fisherman, particularly in the Rangeley Lakes in Maine, and an accomplished painter. He began painting after returning from the War in 1945 because he felt it was a "sort of occupational therapy" (LIFE Magazine, April 5, 1948) and he often produced 20-30 paintings a year. Mr. Marcus was instrumental in organizing art shows though the Association of the Bar of the City of New York. Early grantees of the Foundation included 92nd Street Y, Museum of the City of New York, the New York Public Library, City Harvest, The Hastings Center, The Humane Society, Natural Resources Defense Council, Riverside Park Fund, and The Riverdale Mental Health Association. In 2009, the Grace R. and Alan D. Marcus Foundation was divided into two separate foundations, one of which is now The Marcus Foundation with office trustees in Denver and Washington DC. In 2012, The Marcus Foundation began a strategic evaluation of priorities, values, and operations with the goal of leveraging our resources to enhance positive impact. We are committed to addressing issues in sustainability and community food resources with partners whose values and professional working styles are compatible with ours.