The mission of the Harris and Eliza Kempner Fund is to invest in the long-term success, sustainability, and well-being of Galveston and its residents.
The Harris and Eliza Kempner Fund is a private, place-based family foundation that envisions a Galveston where all residents thrive for generations to come, supported by a trusted partnership to achieve the community’s vision.
Empowering Change, Sustaining Impact
The Kempner Fund’s journey began with the philanthropic legacy of Eliza and Harris Kempner and the values they instilled in future generations.
Our roots run deep in Galveston.
The Galveston Fund (later renamed Harris and Eliza Kempner Fund) was founded in 1946 by the three sons and one grandson of Harris Kempner, who emigrated through Ellis Island in 1853.
The Kempner Fund offers grants to nonprofit organizations through its five program areas serving the Galveston community.