Robert & Joan Dircks Foundation

About Robert & Joan Dircks Foundation

Robert & Joan Dircks Foundation Inc. repeatedly backs small nonprofit programs that support children and people who are physically, mentally, or economically disadvantaged, with a clear emphasis on projects that improve quality of life. Its recent awards show a strong mix of family support, disability services, scholarships, and therapeutic programming, often at the $15,000 to $25,000 level. The foundation’s grant history also points to practical, service-oriented funding rather than broad institutional support: it has funded pediatric cancer family services, caregiver support, independent living assistance, and school-based counseling. Among the clearest signals in the recent record is continued support for Emmanuel Cancer Foundation in Clark, NJ, for pediatric cancer family services, including awards in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Another recurring recipient is Adler Aphasia Center in Maywood, NJ, which received support for caregiver-focused virtual therapeutic programming across multiple years. The foundation also funded Plan-nj in Somerville, NJ, for promoting independent living for individuals with disabilities, and College of Mt St Vincent in Riverdale, NY, for scholarship support. These grants fit the foundation’s stated preference for innovative programs and projects that benefit vulnerable populations.

What Robert & Joan Dircks Foundation Funds

A substantial share of the foundation’s giving supports disability-related services. Quest Therapeutic Services in West Chester, PA, received funding for a physical and occupational therapy program to support children with special needs, while Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital Foundation in Malvern, PA, was funded for a rehab hospital. The foundation also supported The Michael Linsow Respite Center in Hopkinton, MA, to provide intensive support for children and adults with disabilities. Family-focused health support is another clear theme. Why Me Inc in Worcester, MA, received a grant for support services to families with children dealing with cancer, and Maternal & Child Health Consortium in West Chester, PA, was funded for its Healthy Start and Family Benefits Program in multiple years. In education, St Athanasius Church in Brooklyn, NY, received support for a Hispanic scholarship fund, and Home of the Sparrow in Exton, PA, was funded for a graduate outreach program.

How Robert & Joan Dircks Foundation Gives