Billionaire philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has been making waves with her generous donations to organizations that help communities in need.
Recently, two nonprofits in Oregon and Washington received large grants from her as part of a nationwide initiative.
Scott’s donations aim to support economic security, education, healthcare, and more, helping people improve their lives and build a better future.
Two Nonprofits Receive Major Donations
Craft3: Building Economic Opportunity
Craft3, a nonprofit based in the Pacific Northwest, received $15 million from MacKenzie Scott. This is not their first contribution from Scott; they also received $10 million in 2020.
Craft3 focuses on community development by offering low-interest loans to businesses, individuals, and communities that need financial support.
Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians
The Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, representing 57 tribes in Oregon, Washington, and other states, will receive $1.5 million.
This funding will help them continue their efforts to support Native communities by improving education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
MacKenzie Scott’s Approach to Giving
Scott began her philanthropic journey in 2019 after her divorce from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. Since then, she has donated an impressive $19.2 billion to organizations across the globe.
Focus Areas of Donations
- Affordable Housing: Supporting families in need of stable homes.
- Job Stability: Helping individuals find secure, well-paying jobs.
- Education: Improving child development and access to higher education.
- Healthcare: Enhancing access to medical services and counseling.
- Business Support: Offering financial advice and business coaching.
Innovative Giving Strategy
Scott has shifted her approach to philanthropy by focusing on mission-driven investments.
Instead of traditional donations from stock portfolios or bank accounts, she invests in ventures led by underrepresented groups, including women and people of color.
This innovative method ensures her funds create meaningful change rather than benefiting wealthy financial institutions.
Previous Donations to Oregon and Washington Nonprofits
In March, Scott donated $640 million to 361 nonprofits. Organizations in Oregon and Southwest Washington also benefited from this round:
- Raphael House of Portland: $2 million for domestic violence support.
- Familias en Accion: $2 million for Latino community services.
- Jackson Street Youth Services: $1 million for youth programs.
- Council for the Homeless: $2 million to tackle homelessness.
FAQs
1. Who is MacKenzie Scott?
MacKenzie Scott is a billionaire philanthropist and the ex-wife of Jeff Bezos. She is known for her large-scale donations to nonprofits.
2. What is Craft3, and what do they do?
Craft3 is a nonprofit in the Pacific Northwest that provides low-interest loans to support community development and economic growth.
3. How does Scott’s new giving approach work?
Scott invests in mission-driven ventures led by underrepresented groups instead of traditional stock or bank-based donations.
4. What other organizations have received funds from Scott?
In March, organizations like Raphael House of Portland, Familias en Accion, and Council for the Homeless received significant donations.
5. Why does Scott focus on nonprofits?
She aims to support communities in need by improving housing, education, healthcare, and job stability.
