Christopher Family Foundation
Executive Director
About the Organization
The Christopher Family Foundation (CFF), based in Westmont, Illinois, engages in philanthropic outreach in line with its mission and is governed by the Christopher Family Foundation Distribution Committee (Board), which includes multiple generations of the Christopher family.
Mission, Vision, and Values
The mission of the Christopher Family Foundation is to support family well-being with the vision of strengthening communities and families. The Foundation views its work through two key lenses: the Christian perspective of its founders and principals, and an emphasis on access and equity.
Programs
Most Foundation funding is focused on the Chicagoland area, with special consideration for the needs of the West Side of Chicago and the Austin neighborhood. Program areas include Food Security, Education, Employment & Entrepreneurship, and Legacy grants.
History and Future
The Christopher Family Foundation was created in 1997 by Jay W. and Doris K. Christopher, and is an outgrowth of the Pampered Chef, a business they founded in their home in 1980. At present, the Foundation is governed by a 5-member Board consisting of members of two generations of the Christopher Family. Preparation to involve the third generation is underway.
The Distribution Committee has recently finalized a 2024-29 strategic road map, which affirms its commitment to the current program areas and place-based strategy and identifies areas for potential exploration and deepening relationships. The Foundation has invested nearly $50 million since inception and is poised for future growth.
About the Opportunity
The Christopher Family Foundation seeks a new Executive Director who will provide strategic advisory and operational leadership, promoting the fulfillment of the Foundation’s mission and helping the Christopher Family realize their vision of strengthening communities and families (with particular emphasis on Chicago’s West Side and the Austin neighborhood).
The Executive Director will develop a trusting relationship with the Board and lead implementation of their 2024-29 strategy blue print. They will have the opportunity to support the Board in further defining the Foundation’s grantmaking and steward upcoming generational shifts. They will develop and deepen relationships with stakeholders including grantees, collaborators, funders, and partner closely with the family office.
