The Ohio to Erie Trail is a 326-mile network of multi-use trails that links the Ohio River at Cincinnati to Lake Erie at Cleveland, mostly on land once used for railroads and canals. A place for bicyclists, bird watchers, hikers, runners, cross-country skiers, and nature lovers alike, the Ohio to Erie Trail offers scenic views and dedicated space for recreation.

Every student deserves the chance to pursue their educational dreams. At The Columbus Foundation, generous donors have established hundreds of scholarships, creating opportunities for high school and college students to achieve their educational goals and prepare them for future careers.

Beneath the local dining experience of Freedom a la Cart Café + Bakery is a meaningful, mission-focused cause: supporting survivors of sex trafficking. Learn how Freedom a la Cart fosters trust, compassion, and collaboration to provide a safe space for survivors, helping them heal, learn, and lead self-sufficient lives.

For 80 years, The Columbus Foundation has worked with passionate individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to help them achieve their charitable giving goals through the most effective philanthropy possible. One vehicle through which donors are helping to strengthen and improve our community is Field of Interest Funds.

Capital improvement projects are often a critical component of building capacity for nonprofit organizations. Whether an organization is buying a new or larger building, renovating an existing facility, or purchasing new equipment or technology, these projects help nonprofits enhance their services and increase their impact.

What a way to close out 2018! It was an auspicious weekend, to be sure, and I continue to marvel and be grateful for our unparalleled Team. On Saturday, December 29, catalyzed by The Columbus Foundation’s Big Explore Day, we hosted an earth-shattering 20,740 guests in our building between the hours of 9:30 am – 7:00 pm. This staggering and unprecedented performance was not just evidenced by the ridiculously large number of individuals that we greeted and supported throughout our busiest day in the history of COSI (closest second was a now paltry 12, 000…) but it was the context and spirit of Saturday’s attendance that guarantee its place etched on the annals of history.

In the spirit of celebration, The Columbus Foundation’s philanthropy awards honor incredible legacies of generosity and innovation in our community. These awards lift up the generosity of donors, recognize the great work of a high-performing nonprofit organization, and shine a spotlight on a Columbus Foundation fund making a difference a half a world away.

Watch Dr. Frederic Bertley's inherent leadership and captivating spirit in action as he explains his passion for science, education equity, and community building.

Each year, The Columbus Foundation recognizes 5 Nonprofits to Watch that exemplify strong leadership and a deep commitment to expanding opportunity for people throughout our region. Congratulations to the 5 Nonprofits to Watch in 2026: Dress for Success Columbus, Festa, Home for Families, Opera Columbus, and YWCA Columbus.

Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are enormously popular giving vehicles—known for their ease of use and flexibility in administration. DAFs allow individuals to take an active role in their philanthropic efforts, and are the best option for people who value freedom, choice, and a hands-on approach to giving. Plus they are ideal for those wanting to give to multiple organizations and programs.