A young child smiling with a parent and their dog in a backyard

About / Mission

Built to strengthen the people already serving families.

The Sandlin Foundation exists to improve the lives of children and families in need by supporting trusted local organizations, staying close to their work, and investing with consistency and care.

Serving Hoover & Greater Birmingham

Founding story

Why this foundation exists.

We bring together schools, churches, charities, and businesses, and connect them with local organizations that have already proven themselves in their area.

Dwight and Sandy Sandlin together

How we operate differently

A relationship-first model that keeps impact close.

Children and volunteers gathered in a joyful group setting

Support what is already working

We do not create duplicate programs. We back trusted partners who already serve children and families every day.

Stay close to the people doing the work

Our model is relational, not transactional. We listen, stay involved, and support needs as they evolve over time.

Keep generosity personal and practical

Seeing needs in our own community should lead to action. We focus on dignity, responsiveness, and long-term care.

Funding model

Structured for trust and clarity.

  • 100% of donated funds are directed to partner organizations.
  • No administrative overhead is taken from donations.
  • No duplication of services and no recognition-driven campaigns.
  • The foundation serves as a force multiplier for existing nonprofits.

Guiding philosophy

Principles that shape every partnership.

  • Giving should be personal, not distant.
  • Impact happens up close, not through abstraction.
  • Real change is led by people already in the arena.
  • Collaboration multiplies impact.
  • Dignity matters as much as dollars.
  • Seeing local needs should lead to action.
Three children embracing each other outside during a community event

Want to support this work?

If you are an individual, family, business, or nonprofit, we welcome thoughtful collaboration rooted in care for local children and families.