Our Focus
Urban Engagement
Supporting neighborhood and community development, as an expression of our commitment to just, inclusive and democratic societies.
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The Mandel brothers had deep roots in Cleveland, Ohio, where they were raised and founded their business. As soon as Premier Automotive began to experience success, Jack, Joe and Mort demonstrated an abiding commitment to improving the quality of life for all Clevelanders through their philanthropy.
The Mandel Foundation is committed to enhancing economic opportunities in Cleveland by supporting community development corporations and local civic organizations. We address key issues impacting the well-being of the city and its residents by funding innovative and collaborative projects in the areas of digital equity, arts and culture, access to public greenspaces, affordable housing, youth development, and economic mobility. We also operate leadership development programs to empower grassroots leaders and community development professionals working to improve Cleveland neighborhoods.
Community Stories
Digital Equity: Mandel Foundation Grant Is a Catalyst for State and Local Funding
Featured Grants
40 Years of Partnership: Annual Support for MidTown Cleveland Bolsters Neighborhoods
Since the organization was established in 1982, Mort Mandel has invested in the vision and potential of MidTown Cleveland, Inc. It is the sole nonprofit community development organization focused on the two-mile stretch of neighborhoods between downtown Cleveland and University Circle – including AsiaTown, Hough, Central, Fairfax, and Downtown. For over forty years, the Mandel Foundation has been a resource and funding partner to help MidTown Cleveland leverage its diverse assets and develop a dynamic neighborhood uniting the city’s downtown and innovation districts. As a national model for urban redevelopment and a leader for urban reinvestment, MidTown has benefited from Mandel Foundation support in the following areas: executive leadership and staff development, neighborhood placemaking initiatives, real estate development, arts and culture investments, and tree canopy expansion. This longtime relationship reflects the Mandel Foundation’s vision for Cleveland: to have thriving, self-sustaining neighborhoods of choice where residents feel pride in where they live.
$24M for Lakefront Access and Recreation Investment in Cleveland Neighborhoods
In support of its commitment to improving quality of life in Cleveland, the Mandel Foundation designated nearly $24 million in grants to enhance lakefront access and recreational opportunities for Cleveland residents, particularly in the St. Clair Superior and Collinwood neighborhoods. Announced in July 2023, the grant recipients include Cleveland Metroparks, LAND Studio, and Western Reserve Land Conservancy in support of conservation and park and trail development. Cleveland Metroparks received $13 million to expand the Downtown Connector Trail and create a cohesive Gordon Park Reservation. LAND Studio was granted $725,000 to revitalize St. Clair Superior through park redesign and placemaking initiatives. Western Reserve Land Conservancy was awarded $10 million to consolidate Euclid Beach, Villa Angela, and Wildwood Marina into a single public park. The Foundation’s funding accelerated these transformative projects and reflects a broader commitment to neighborhood revitalization and connectivity along Cleveland's lakefront – which aligns with the Foundation’s focus on vibrant, inclusive neighborhoods and sustainable urban development.
The hallmark of our philanthropy is our commitment to invest in people with the values, ability and passion to change the world
Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel
