The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation has been dedicated to helping others for over 50 years.

Their mission is to support extraordinary nonprofit organizations that provide civic and human services, foster educational achievement, expand opportunities for youth and adults, develop the next generation of hospitality leaders, and lead innovation in health and medicine. The Foundation's commitment to giving others opportunity stems from their own family history. Their father, a sheep herder in Utah, was given the chance to pursue a college education by an English professor who recognized his potential.

This opportunity led him to open a nine-seat A&W root beer stand in Washington, D. C., which eventually grew into one of the world's leading hospitality companies. The Foundation believes that giving people opportunity involves more than just education.

It's about ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can lead independent lives, have access to quality medical care, and provide for their families in secure homes with nutritious food. The Foundation's grantees and partners passionately engage in this important work, inspired by the legacy of the Foundation's parents. Please note that The J.

Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation is a private family foundation and has no connection to Marriott International or Host Hotels & Resorts