To protect and strengthen democratic values and participation
We believe that informed grantmaking will help us meet our objectives. Our goals are to understand how we can make a difference, and to direct our resources accordingly. To do this, we will undertake our own research and analysis, work with people who have knowledge and expertise, and respond to needs in the community. Through all of these, we will continue to reflect the interests of four generations of Myer Family Philanthropy.
Background
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Sidney Myer |
Myer Family Philanthropy has its origins in the philanthropic life and legacy of Sidney Myer. A generous philanthropist in his lifetime, he left ten percent of his wealth for charitable causes. This giving has continued, over the 70 years since his death, by members of three succeeding generations of the Myer family, who have given, in many ways, to make significant and lasting changes in our society.
The Sidney Myer Fund and The Myer Foundation are independent organisations with their own Trustees and Board respectively, and are separate from the Myer stores.
Sidney Myer Fund
Sidney Myer established the tradition of Myer Family Philanthropy over 70 years ago. The Sidney Myer Fund has its origins in the Will of Sidney Myer who founded the Myer retailing business. On his death in 1934, he left one tenth of his estate for the benefit of the community in which he made his fortune. To this day, the Sidney Myer Fund continues the legacy of his civic generosity for which he became renowned in his lifetime.
The Sidney Myer Fund is a Trust governed by Trustees.
The Myer Foundation
The Myer Foundation was established in 1959 and was initially endowed by Sidney Myer’s sons, Baillieu and the late Kenneth Myer. It is now supported by three successive generations of
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Kenneth Myer AC |
Baillieu Myer AC |
Myer family members. Today it represents the broad, continuing, family commitment to philanthropy.
The Myer Foundation is a public company limited by guarantee and is governed by a Board of Directors.
MF Philanthropic Services - Personal Giving
Many families and individuals are becoming actively involved in philanthropy on a personal level and Myer family philanthropy continues to evolve in this way. Since their introduction, Myer family members have established Prescribed Private Funds for the purpose of personal giving. If you are interested in establishing an effective structure for your personal giving, please visit the M F Philanthropic Services website.
