From the introduction of the 2005 - 2009 Strategic Plan:
Ewing Kauffman built his foundation with the same energy, enthusiasm and commitment to excellence that fueled his success as the founder of Marion Laboratories and owner of the Kansas City Royals. He approached his philanthropic efforts with characteristic zeal and was wise enough to document his intentions for Kauffman Foundation board and staff to follow for years to come. He also left a critical set of values to serve as the driving force in all of our efforts.
Mr. Kauffman wanted his Foundation to be “excellent” and he expected all who were involved to take tremendous pride in what the Foundation does and in its accomplishments. Furthermore, he wanted it to be an institution that treated the public and the associates with respect and dignity.
He was clear about his two areas of interest—education and entrepreneurship. He wanted the Kauffman Foundation to focus on helping Kansas City youth get a quality education so they could reach their full potential and become productive, economically independent adults. His desire to have a national influence in promoting entrepreneurship stemmed from his belief that entrepreneurs create jobs and contribute to economic vitality.
Although Mr. Kauffman was firm about the culture and values he expected the Foundation to maintain, he did not take a long-range prescriptive stand on programs. He recognized that change was inevitable.
This strategic plan is built on Mr. Kauffman’s intentions and is presented in two parts. The first section is the Board of Trustees’ Strategic Direction for the Foundation. The second section is the Strategic Plan developed by associates, executives, and directors.
