The Nathan Cummings Foundation is rooted in the Jewish tradition and committed to democratic values and social justice, including fairness, diversity, and community. We seek to build a socially and economically just society that values nature and protects the ecological balance for future generations; promotes humane health care; and fosters arts and culture that enriches communities.

The Foundation's approach to grantmaking embodies some basic themes in all of its programs:

• concern for the poor, disadvantaged, and underserved;
• respect for diversity;
• promotion of understanding across cultures;
• and empowerment of communities in need.