Started by Harold and Arlene Schnitzer in 1997, the CommuniCare program channels The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation’s commitment to small, community giving through a school-based youth philanthropy program. Inspired by a youth grantmaking program in Colorado, Barb Hall, Executive Director of The CARE Foundation, sparked the idea for what would become CommuniCare.

In its 24-year history, students have granted over $2,558,000 to 377 nonprofit organizations and many additional school programs. Currently, 27 schools and 47 grantmaking groups in Oregon participate in the program.

Harold passed away in 2011 and Arlene joined him in 2020. Stewardship and education are of primary importance to Harold and Arlene’s son, Jordan Schnitzer, who is honoring his parents’ legacy by expanding the CommuniCare program. The family's belief in the power of young people, along with their dedication to building a strong and vibrant community, are infused in every aspect of the program.

To learn more about CommuniCare and to see our grantmakers in action, please view past editions of the CommuniCare Annual Report: 2017-2018, 2018-2019, and 2019-2020.

For more information about The Harold & Arlene Schnitzer CARE Foundation, please visit their website.