Our History
The John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation proudly funds nonprofits in Northwest Ohio dedicated to addressing critical aspects of society, such as food security, housing stability, and youth education as well as libraries in low-income, rural communities throughout the United States.
Since our inception in 2012, we've had the privilege of making meaningful contributions, totaling over $11M, to nonprofit organizations throughout Northwest Ohio and hundreds of small, rural libraries in high-poverty communities across the United States.
As a young and growing organization, the Foundation aspires to be a beacon of hope, embodying the values of our founder, John Henry Eldred Jr. His legacy of generosity and community service serves as our guiding light. Through strategic investments and unwavering dedication, we remain committed to uplifting families and communities, ensuring a lasting impact in the lives of those we have the privilege to serve.
The Seeds of Service
Our Foundation's roots trace back to the entrepreneurial spirit of John Henry Eldred Jr., who, despite a challenging childhood, embodied fairness, adventure, and compassion. His business acumen led to the establishment of Midwest Tape in 1989, evolving into an international media distribution company serving over 8,000 libraries. Alongside his business partner, Jeff Jankowski, John expanded their ventures, contributing significantly to the world of publishing and media distribution through Dreamscape Media and hoopla Digital.
John's dedication to philanthropy grew from his profound belief in the Toledo and Northwest Ohio community. Over the years, he built a successful business and, in honor of his mother, founded the Dorothy Louise Kyler Foundation, supporting low-income rural libraries.
A New Era of Leadership
In 2022, The Foundation was renamed the John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation to honor his legacy, expanding its reach to support Northwest Ohio nonprofits.
Central to this transition and growth has been the dedicated leadership of John’s step-daughter, Kate Blake. Serving as Board Chair since 2022, Kate has spent time tirelessly establishing the Foundation’s long-term vision, ensuring that John’s values of generosity and community service remain our guiding light. Under her guidance, the Foundation has moved from a private mission to a professionalized philanthropic partner, appointing a dedicated staff and a Board of Directors to steward our strategic investments.
Through unwavering dedication to the nonprofits and libraries we serve, we remain committed to uplifting families and ensuring a lasting impact for generations to come.
A Future Informed by the Community
As the Foundation continues to grow, we recognize that to create a lasting impact, we need to move beyond traditional grantmaking and listen deeply to the experts on the ground. In 2025, the Board adopted a Theory of Change.
The Theory of Change framework was directly informed by listening sessions with community members and leaders from local nonprofits, academic research, and conversations with area funders. This research allowed us to align our resources with the needs of Northwest Ohio, ensuring our strategic investments are rooted in community-driven solutions.
Today, this Theory of Change serves as our north star.
Community Awards & Recognition
While our work is guided by the needs and expertise of the nonprofits and communities we support, these awards and acknowledgments reflect the shared impact we can achieve together. We are deeply grateful to each organization that has recognized our efforts and proud to stand alongside them in advancing positive change.
-
Blueprint Builder - Sandusky County Habitat for Humanity
Growing Community Award - Urban Wholistics
Contributor Award - Press Club of Toledo
Community Partnership of the Year - Toledo Public Schools, Oakdale Elementary LEGO Initiative -
Allyship Award - Equality Toledo
Outstanding Foundation - Association of Fundraising Professionals Northwest Ohio Chapter