Our History

Our History

The Children’s Foundation has a strong, committed mission to improve the health and wellness of children with history tracing back to supporting Children’s Hospital of Michigan. As The Foundation has grown and evolved, it has broadened itself to provide for kids both inside and outside of the hospital.


As stewards of CHM’s philanthropic legacy, which dates back nearly 140 years, the Foundation has and continues to improve treatment and health outcomes and create more equitable opportunities for kids today and for generations to come.

The Foundation has distributed more than $80 million dollars in grant funding to community partners. Our current Focus Areas  include Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder, Health Equity & Access, and Children’s Hospital of Michigan Legacy Initiatives.

2003

THE FOUNDATION IS ESTABLISHED

Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation (CHMF) is established as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

SALE OF CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF MICHIGAN

Detroit Medical Center – which is home to Children’s Hospital of Michigan, was acquired by an investor-owned entity; The Foundation inherited $90 million in philanthropic funds.

2011

2012 - 2017

ESTABLISHING A PROCESS, BROADENING FOCUS & ORGANIZING PRIORITIES

As a newly established independent foundation, CHM adopted a fundraising and grantmaking process and announced a broadened path forward as an independent foundation supporting needs beyond the hospital.

A NEW NAME

CHMF renames to The Children’s Foundation, reflecting growth and a broadened mission.

2018

2023

RESPONDING & ADAPTING

The Foundation responds to current issues facing kids, establishing revised mission and vision statements, and structured focus areas.

2003

THE FOUNDATION IS ESTABLISHED

Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation (CHMF) is established as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

2011

SALE OF CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL OF MICHIGAN

Detroit Medical Center – which is home to Children’s Hospital of Michigan, was acquired by an investor-owned entity; The Foundation inherited $90 million in philanthropic funds.

2012 - 2017

ESTABLISHING A PROCESS, BROADENING FOCUS & ORGANIZING PRIORITIES

As a newly established independent foundation, CHM adopted a fundraising and grantmaking process and announced a broadened path forward as an independent foundation supporting needs beyond the hospital.

2018

A NEW NAME

CHMF renames to The Children’s Foundation, reflecting growth and a broadened mission.

2023

RESPONDING & ADAPTING

The Foundation responds to current issues facing kids, establishing revised mission and vision statements, and structured focus areas.

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