About
About the Foundation
The Lawson Family Foundation was established by Phil Lawson in 2020 to serve as a catalyst for the development of a more inclusive Knoxville community. As a private grantmaking foundation, the Lawson Family Foundation focuses support on organizations involved in the areas of education, economic development, criminal justice reform, and anti-human trafficking. Public 501(c)(3) charities in the East Tennessee region are encouraged to apply for grant funding, with grants being awarded on a rolling basis.
Mission Statement:
Driven by the belief that every life has equal value, the Lawson Family Foundation exists to support efforts that promote justice and opportunity in all aspects of society, primarily in Knoxville, Tennessee. In doing so, it seeks to achieve a positive impact in marginalized communities that will last for generations.
Core Values:
Humility:Â willing to learn and adjust perspectives
Compassion: desiring to understand and value others’ experiences to provide meaningful and effective assistance
Diversity & Inclusion: empowering and enabling people of all ethnicities and backgrounds to advance and fully participate in society
Justice: seeking to support efforts to correct historical sources of injustice, as well as those which aim to create equal and fair opportunities for future generations
Diversity and Non-Discrimination Statement
The Lawson Family Foundation respects, celebrates, and encourages diversity that positively contributes to our community. The Foundation is an equal opportunity provider of services and employment and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, gender, familial status, age, disability, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. The Lawson Family Foundation encourages its grantee and partner organizations to adhere to these principles.