Deadline: Ongoing
The AJA Foundation invites Letters of Intent from organizations committed to supporting individuals who strive to improve their lives but face systemic barriers to essential resources and opportunities.
The AJA Foundation is a global philanthropic organization dedicated to addressing some of the most critical and basic human rights: access to clean water, quality education, and fundamental healthcare.
Founded by Andy Astrachan, the foundation is deeply rooted in his personal journey and values. From mentoring young people in South Central Los Angeles to participating in clean water projects in rural Africa and surviving metastatic cancer, Andy’s life experiences have shaped the foundation’s mission and its compassionate, hands-on approach to giving.
The foundation believes in “leveling the playing field” for disadvantaged communities around the world. It does this by investing in sustainable, community-driven solutions that deliver long-term impact.
In the area of clean water, the AJA Foundation has supported projects that build and maintain boreholes in rural areas, reaching over 300,000 people with clean drinking water.
These efforts have demonstrated how effective and cost-efficient clean water access can be, with some projects costing just $20 per person for a lasting solution.
In education, the foundation has channeled its support into programs that provide scholarships, mentoring, and access to higher education for students from underserved backgrounds.
Its healthcare efforts focus on preventive care and community-based health services, often supporting volunteer-led clinics and initiatives that reach people who might otherwise go without care.
Since its inception, the AJA Foundation has disbursed over $14 million through 439 grants to 155 organizations across countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia, Guinea, Haiti, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy. Its goal is not only to respond to urgent needs but also to build a healthier, more equitable future for vulnerable populations.
The foundation accepts letters of inquiry on a rolling basis and typically responds within six weeks, with full proposals taking up to six months for review. Under the leadership of Andy Astrachan and Executive Director Colleen McKenna, the AJA Foundation continues to grow its impact through thoughtful, values-driven philanthropy.
For more information, visit AJA Foundation.
