The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region Honors the Bender Family for Philanthropic Achievement

ALBANY, NY (05/18/2012)(readMedia)-- The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region today honored Matthew Bender IV, Phoebe Powell Bender and the Bender Family Foundation with the C. Jordan Vail Spirit of Philanthropy award, in recognition of their outstanding philanthropic leadership and extraordinary commitment to preserving and enhancing the quality of life in our community.

The award was presented at the Community Foundation's annual Celebration of Philanthropy Luncheon which celebrates the thoughtful generosity and spirit of giving throughout the Capital Region.

The Bender's philanthropy is in evidence throughout the Capital Region. Their commitment to local history has helped preserve some of our region's most beloved buildings and neighborhoods; they are deeply committed to protecting our region's natural landscape and preserving historic farms; and, beyond the physical evidence, the Benders' philanthropy has a profound impact on the lives of children and families. They have made grants to support schools and daycare centers, afterschool activities and summer camps, and outdoor recreation programs. The Benders are also among our region's strongest supporters of the arts – from museums and galleries to concert halls and symphonies, countless local arts and cultural organizations have benefited from the Benders' generosity.

"What really sets the Benders apart as champions for local charities is their engaged and strategic approach to giving. They are actively involved in their giving, and are often the first to support projects they think have potential, which paves the way for others to participate," said Karen Bilowith, President of the Community Foundation.

"On behalf of myself and my family, I am pleased to accept this award and hope that it encourages everyone in our community to feel the same responsibility to giving back that we do," said Matthew Bender IV.

The Benders work with Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region on the grantmaking activities of the Bender Family Foundation, through which they have awarded more than $2,571,000 to 230 organizations since the foundation was formed in 1997. Additionally, the Benders make grants to local institutions and organizations which they feel strongly about, including Albany Medical Center, Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, WMHT, Saratoga Performing Arts Center and the Community Foundation.

Several community leaders also recognized the Bender's philanthropic leadership with their comments;

"Matt and Phoebe Bender are the bedrock of Albany philanthropy. I shudder to think about an Albany without the Benders." – Alan Chartock, President & CEO, WAMC Northeast Public Radio

"Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm." Indeed, our ability to "Raise The Barn," stimulating creative activity and enterprise to reinvigorate our inner city, is a direct result from the enthusiasm and commitment of forward thinking community leaders like the Benders." – Jeff Mirel, Albany Barn

"The Bender's financial support is greatly appreciated, but it is just one way they have shown their affinity for Albany Med. Sharing personal time is another. Whether as a volunteer, a member of the Board of Directors or the Pillars Society, they continue to be tireless advocates for the work we do here each day." – James J. Barba, Albany Medical Center

"When we value our history, we foster both appreciation for the past and expectations for the future. The Preservation League of New York State is truly grateful for the family tradition of historic preservation embraced by the Bender family, and bolstered by the Bender Family Foundation." - Jay DiLorenzo, Preservation League of New York State

About The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region

Since 1968, The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region has provided an effective means for people who care about this community to be part of shaping its future. Currently, the Foundation manages over 340 funds with assets totaling $51 million, and has granted more than $36 million to not for profit organizations since inception. Through flexible donor services, strategic grantmaking and community leadership, the Community Foundation helps people support the causes they care about, now and for generations to come.

In 2010, this partnership resulted in nearly 900 grants to local and national organizations totaling more than $3 million.

For more information on The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region please visit www.cfgcr.org or call 518-446-9638.