Deaconess seeks to create conditions where liberation is the lived reality within seven generations. A ministry of the United Church of Christ, Deaconess has invested more than $96 million to improve the health of the St. Louis community since 1998. Our grants and cultivated relationships support the accelerated change in conditions through policy, advocacy, and/or organizing efforts building and wielding power to transform systems to respond to the will of the people. The Foundation’s advocacy and grantmaking footprint includes St. Louis City, St. Louis, Jefferson, St. Charles and Franklin Counties in Missouri and Madison, St. Clair and Monroe Counties in Illinois.
Our Mission
In the spirit of our faith heritage, the mission of Deaconess Foundation is the improved health of the community and people of Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois.
Our Vision
Deaconess Foundation envisions a community that values the health and well-being of all and gives priority attention to the most invisiblized. This community only thrives if the allocation of power and distribution of resources, benefits, opportunities and burdens are not predictable by, nor predicated on race.
Our Values
Faith
As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate Christ’s living example through generations.
Healing
Healing is essential to achieve a state of wholeness, well-being, and a renewed sense of purpose and harmony.
Liberation
We tenaciously commit to eradicate oppressive systems, advocate for justice and equity, and foster a culture of individual and collective release and healing.
Justice
We stand resolutely against anti-Black racism and systemic discrimination in all its manifestations.
