Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Overview

The Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation, Inc. is a prominent nonprofit organization based in Central Florida. Founded by Edyth Bassler Bush in 1966, the foundation is dedicated to supporting charitable, educational, and health service organizations, with a focus on human services, the elderly, youth services, the handicapped, and quality arts or cultural programs[4].

History and Founding

Edyth Bush was born in 1887 in Chicago and initially pursued a career as an actress, playwright, and ballet dancer. She married Archibald Granville Bush in 1919, and after his death in 1966, she decided to establish a permanent residence in Winter Park, Florida, where she continued her philanthropic work[1][2]. The foundation was originally incorporated in Minnesota but was reincorporated in Florida in 1973[4].

Mission and Activities

The Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation awards grants to nonprofit organizations and provides management assistance to strengthen their leadership and governance. Its mission centers on "helping people help themselves," particularly through support for education and human services[2][4]. Over its 50 years of operation, the foundation has awarded more than 4,273 grants totaling over $114 million to 891 nonprofit organizations[1].

Impact and Initiatives

The foundation actively supports the Edyth Bush Institute for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership at the Crummer School of Business, which trains thousands of nonprofit executives annually[5]. In addition to financial grants, the foundation focuses on community leadership development and fostering collaborative relationships among its supported groups[4]. Its headquarters, known as "The Edyth," serves as both administrative offices and a community space for events and exhibitions, reflecting Edyth Bush's passion for the performing arts[5].

Legacy of Edyth Bush

Edyth Bush was a community activist deeply involved in both St. Paul and Winter Park. She was instrumental in establishing theaters and contributing to institutions like Rollins College, where she donated funds for the Archibald Granville Bush Science Center in memory of her husband[2][5]. Her foundation continues to honor her legacy by promoting arts, education, and human services across Central Florida.