Freedom Matters

Supporting local Veterans, active-duty families and first responders in the name of freedom.

The mission of the USS Midway Foundation is to help fund education programs, organizations, and initiatives that support America’s core values of service and sacrifice in the name of freedom.

As separate 501C3, the Foundation was created to look at the long-term sustainability and expansion of the Museum’s Educational Programs through an endowment. In 2016 the ‘Pillars of Freedom’ granting opportunity for San Diego organizations serving Veterans, active duty, and first responders was formed and to date has granted $4 million dollars to 55 local organizations.

Additionally, the Foundation has been tasked with raising the funds necessary to complete Freedom Park at Navy Pier.

Freedom Park at Navy Pier

The USS Midway Museum and Port of San Diego made a commitment in 2004 to one day develop a park on Navy Pier. After many years of negotiations and planning, the California Coastal Commission’s approval in February gives us the development permit required to start the process of building the park, your park–Freedom Park at Navy Pier.

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Education Endowment

With assets at just over $1 million, the endowment will provide annual support for Midway’s educational programs for tens of thousands of students and teachers all over the United States. With a goal of $10 million by 2030, this fund would help offset operating expenses and allow the education program the ability to grow and expand its offering to even more students. Your gift of cash, securities, or a legacy gift will ensure this is possible in perpetuity.

Pillars of Freedom Grants

Since 2016 the Foundation has granted $4 million to over 50 organizations whose primary focus is improving the lives and communities of veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders. Those who sacrifice everything in the name of freedom. Grants have ranged from $5,000 to $125,000 and impacted more than 100,000 individuals.

Through an annual grant application, the Foundation Board of Directors and staff will vet, monitor, and evaluate the impacts of local organizations before granting a gift. Because of the generosity of the Foundation Board and the operational support of the museum, 100% of all donations are granted out. Your gift of cash, securities, or a legacy gift makes these impact grants possible.

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Education Endowment

The endowment will provide annual support for Midway’s educational programs for tens of thousands of students and teachers all over the US. With a goal of $10 million by 2025, this fund will help offset operating expenses and allow the education program the ability to grow and expand its offering to even more students.

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Pillars of Freedom Grants

Grants given to non-profits serving in San Diego whose primary focus is improving the lives and communities of Veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders.

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