ABOUT US

Our Legacy

Our founders, Lora M. and E. Claiborne Robins were extraordinary philanthropists as well as compassionate, accessible community leaders.

Their legacy has inspired generations of thoughtful philanthropists and visionaries, and it is a legacy we strive to nurture and deepen.

Robins Foundation was founded on Claiborne Robins’ belief in the power of education to transform lives and society, and we continue that legacy through our focus on early childhood care and education. In addition to education, Mr. and Mrs. Robins were deeply passionate about the power of culture, inclusion, and community building. The foundation honors that commitment by investing in organizations that are contributing to the culture and vibrancy of Richmond’s dynamic community.

As we look to the future, we continue to engage 4th generation Robins’ descendants, our dedicated staff, and community leaders to join this legacy of philanthropy and service by supporting the Richmond community and embracing the promise of a bright future for all.

Vision & Mission

Robins Foundation’s Vision & Mission are rooted in the legacy established by our founders, Lora M. and E. Claiborne Robins.

Mr. and Mrs. Robins were passionate about supporting the Richmond region and its residents. They were ahead of their time in that they understood the power of high-quality education to transform individual lives, and the power of investing in our community to enrich the lives of everyone.

Today, Robins Foundation’s Vision & Mission reflect the Robins’ legacy and passion for the well-being of both individuals and the collective, by investing in the crucial activities and organizations that have the power to ensure bright futures for our children and dynamic communities for all who live, work, and play here:

Vision
A Richmond region where every young child is prepared for a bright future and every resident and visitor has access to vibrant spaces and enriching experiences.

Mission
We seek to elevate early childhood care and education and promote a dynamic Richmond community for all to enjoy by listening to and partnering with our community.

Our Values

In 2023, Robins Foundation’s Board and staff worked together to develop values for the Foundation. We view these values as the connection between past and future. They draw on the reasons the Foundation was founded, while also guiding our organization and work toward our vision of meaningful progress and transformational support for the community.

Vision
Vision inspires clarity and continuity in our work with the community, embracing innovation and optimism about the future. We adapt to emerging challenges, take appropriate risks, and build strong partnerships to support meaningful progress that can lead to transformational change.

Excellence
Excellence is the outcome of careful listening, continual learning, commitment to outstanding stewardship, and a focus on measurable impact. We aim to be collaborative, strategic, and effective in our work with the community.

Commitment
Commitment to community is the reason our family’s foundation has endured for generations. We are dedicated to operating with integrity and a strong ethical core. We uplift our grantees, partners, and team; learn from and with our community; and remain true to our legacy.

Compassion
Compassion reflects our genuine care and concern for the well-being of our community, our partners, and each other. We strive to be accessible and approach our work with empathy, inclusivity, and grace.

Joy
Joy is an experience we seek to foster in our community. We are committed to acknowledging the efforts of others, generating enthusiasm, and encouraging celebration.

Board

Building on more than 60 years of community impact

E. Claiborne Robins established the Robins Foundation in 1957 and significantly funded it at his death in 1995. Mr. Robins and his wife, Lora M. Robins, are best remembered for their transforming gifts to the University of Richmond and their lifelong dedication to making Richmond a better place. The couple’s philanthropy reflected a love for the community and family. Mrs. Robins encouraged this tradition of generosity—through her personal philanthropy and Robins Foundation board service—until her death in 2010. Today’s board, which includes children, grandchildren and great grandchildren of the Foundation’s founders, follows their inspiring legacy of philanthropy and grantmaking.

CURRENT BOARD