Foundation Giving History

A Legacy of Impact

Since 1989, the Beirne Carter Foundation has awarded more than $42 million in grants supporting organizations and initiatives across Virginia. Guided by the vision of founder Beirne Blair Carter, the Foundation has focused on creating meaningful, lasting impact in communities throughout the Commonwealth.

Areas of Support

The Foundation’s giving has supported a broad range of causes, including:

  • Healthcare and medical research

  • Education and youth development

  • Social and community welfare

  • Historic preservation

  • Environmental and ecological initiatives

  • Arts and humanities

Mr. Carter believed philanthropy should remain flexible and responsive to evolving community needs — a philosophy that continues to guide the Foundation today.

Advancing Medical Research

One of the Foundation’s most significant and lasting contributions has been its support of the Beirne B. Carter Center for Immunology Research at the University of Virginia.

Originally established through a $3.5 million gift from Mr. Carter while he himself was undergoing cancer treatment, the Center was founded on the belief that immunology research could lead to breakthroughs in diagnosing and treating human disease. Continued Foundation support later helped expand the Center into the Carter-Harrison Research Building, a nationally recognized medical research facility advancing work in cancer, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and immunology research.

Supporting Education & Community

The Foundation’s giving history also reflects Mr. Carter’s lifelong commitment to education and community enrichment. Significant investments have supported organizations including:

  • North Cross School

  • St. Christopher's School

  • Virginia Military Institute

  • Community organizations and nonprofits across Virginia

These investments helped expand educational opportunities, strengthen community resources, and improve quality of life for generations of Virginians.

Continuing the Mission

Today, the Beirne Carter Foundation continues to build upon Mr. Carter’s vision by supporting organizations and initiatives that strengthen communities, improve lives, and create lasting impact throughout Virginia, Washing, DC and Jackson Hole, Wyoming.