AWS Foundation was founded in 2007. We are an independent organization created by corporate changes made in the business operations of AWS/Anthony Wayne Services, now named Benchmark Human Services. The Foundation exists as a separate not-for-profit entity in support of the disability community.

Together with like-minded community partners, we help children and adults with enduring intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities live as independently as possible, be included in the community and function at their highest potential.

We envision a community in which people with enduring intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities are engaged fully and meaningfully in all aspects of community life.

From accessible playgrounds, to adaptive sports, to special needs pre-vocational training, we want to give people with disabilities opportunities they’ve never experienced before. With your help, we want to create a community rich in resources and services where people with disabilities and their families thrive.

Our primary support is to provide grants to community partners who will implement the Foundation’s vision on a practical level.

AWS Foundation also strives to engage the community through advocacy and awareness efforts and to be a useful resource to both service providers and families facing the challenges of enduring disabilities. To that end, we encourage you to explore our website and follow us on Facebook for news, events and helpful information.

Since it began grant making in 2009 through summer of 2017, the Foundation has awarded grants totaling more than $27 million to more than 130 not-for-profit organizations.

To learn more about our grants and whether you should consider applying on behalf of your not-for-profit organization, take a look at the Grant Seekers section.

The Foundation’s grants support not-for-profit organizations with their programs, capital needs and operations in our five priority initiatives as well as related opportunities that enhance the lives of people with disabilities. For examples of previous grant recipients, see the Grantees section.