The RR Donnelley Foundation is the company's primary contributions vehicle. The mission of the RR Donnelley Foundation is to enhance those communities in which employees work and live. Within this geographical focus, the company gives top priority to activities related to the written word, as well as children and youth.

The Foundation makes charitable grants to 501(c)(3) organizations, including special purpose grants and general operating grants. Funding and policy decisions are made by a Foundation Board composed of company executives who meet quarterly.

Some restrictions apply:

• Scholarships are awarded only to children of employees and retirees through the company's corporate giving program.
• Special-event support is made only under circumstances where there is high correlation with company priorities and active employee involvement.

The company does not:

• contribute printing;
• make grants to individuals or to religious organizations;
• make grants for television, radio, film or video;
• make grants for specific diseases, clinical care, medical research or equipment.

Application Process

Because the foundation supports decision-making at the local level, agencies and organizations located in communities in which RR Donnelley has facilities should contact the local manufacturing division. (On our home page, click on "About Us" button, then go to "Locations.") Requests from Chicago-area and national organizations should be directed to:

To apply for funding, please send the following information:

• A short proposal containing a description of the organization, its activities and its clients;
• A clear statement of what is wanted from RR Donnelley;
• An explanation of what you plan to accomplish;
• A copy of the organization's IRS status letter;
• A list of board members;
• An audited financial statement.

A limited amount of other supporting materials, such as an annual report, brochure or newsletter, also is welcome.

Proposals are accepted between January 1 and November 1. The Foundation Board meets quarterly to evaluate proposals and make awards.