About Meyer/Our History
Background
Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer created the Meyer Foundation in 1944. Eugene Meyer was an investment banker, public servant under seven U.S. presidents, and owner and publisher of The Washington Post. Agnes Meyer was an accomplished journalist, author, lecturer and citizen activist. In 1950 they created an independent board which decided the Foundation's work.
Eugene Meyer believed in taking calculated risks. His special interests included medicine, mental health, and law and justice. Agnes Meyer was dedicated to raising the quality of life in her community and gave special attention to public education, young children, and social services.
Today, the Meyer Foundation is governed by a diverse board of business and civic leaders. We keep the legacy of Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer alive through our efforts to build community; to identify and support leaders with vision, talent, and passion; and by our willingness to take calculated risks.
Strategic Grantmaking
The story about the Meyer Foundation is also the story of a city changed by Meyer's investments in many nonprofits which have changed the landscape of our communities - such as DC Primary Care Association, the Latin American Youth Center, and Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company.
Meyer has often been among the first foundations to respond to emerging issues in our community and also one of the first to recognize the importance of strengthening the region's philanthropic community.