The Charles and Helen Schwab Foundation believes that every person has the potential and deserves the opportunity to lead a happy and productive life. A quality education holds the key to much of this. Today, many young people in California and beyond are denied the education they deserve. The status quo has not served them well. We seek out organizations that turn the tables on this unacceptable reality to ensure that each student reaches his or her full potential. This is our primary focus.

The Foundation also recognizes that human suffering takes many different forms and affects people from all walks of life. For this reason, we also support organizations which alleviate suffering, take aim at its root cause and give people a fair shot at their own success.