Houston Endowment supports efforts to enrich the lives of children and youth (from birth to age 19) so they grow to reach their full potential, particularly low-income individuals who might not otherwise have access to such services. The foundation invests in three focus areas, each characterized by a desired outcome. Grantseekers should select one of the following areas as the primary focus of their application:

Development: Children and youth meet or exceed their cognitive, physical, social and emotional developmental milestones. Projects or programs ideally demonstrate significant improvement  within at-risk populations toward achieving most or all developmental milestones.

Parenting: Parents and caregivers are active participants in their children’s success.

Independence: Young people develop the skills and character needed to live productive, independent lives.