A donor-advised fund dedicated to empowering communities through intentional, strategic philanthropy — investing in education, opportunity, and lasting change.
The William R. Penson, Jr. Empowerment Fund is a private donor-advised fund administered through Fidelity Charitable. We do not solicit donations from the public.
Our Mission
The WRPJ Empowerment Fund was established to direct strategic philanthropic investments toward organizations and initiatives that create measurable, lasting impact in communities that need it most.
We believe that generosity is most powerful when it is thoughtful — when it meets communities where they are, builds on existing strengths, and creates pathways for self-determination and long-term flourishing.
Focus Areas
Supporting access to quality education by funding scholarships, academic programs, and organizations that open doors for students who might otherwise face closed ones.
Investing in organizations that strengthen the fabric of community life — from neighborhood revitalization and civic engagement to programs that build collective power and resilience.
Our Philosophy
Our Approach
Every grant begins with deep research into an organization's mission, track record, leadership, and community alignment.
We believe in building genuine relationships with grantee organizations, not just transactional check-writing.
Sustained impact requires sustained support. We prioritize multi-year giving over one-time donations where possible.
We track outcomes — not just outputs — asking whether our giving is genuinely transforming lives and communities.
Get in Touch
If you are an organization aligned with our mission and wish to learn more about our giving priorities, we welcome respectful inquiry. Please note that we do not respond to unsolicited funding requests.
info@wrpjfund.org