We believe in a future shaped by shared imagination where genius is honored, possibility isn't rationed, and everyone grows up knowing they belong in the world we are building together.
How We Do the Work
Through catalytic funding, deep leadership development, and cross-sector connection, we support people and organizations transforming education and philanthropy from the inside out.
We provide catalytic capital and deep support to leaders reimagining education, from classrooms to communities. The 1954 Project shifts who gets funded and how.
Through LEAD, we connect college students with paid internships and a dynamic summer curriculum, offering transformative experiences in philanthropy and social impact.
"The CAFE Group demonstrates
that philanthropy is more than a word.
It is an action executed with 'love' at its core."
Alexandra Bernadotte, 1954 Project Luminary
Generational Impact
Our impact is collective and our results are rooted.
Together, we are forging a future where education innovators receive the vital support they need, young leaders embark on their journeys with intention, and philanthropy thrives on the strength of love, courage, and a united community for generations to come.
16M+
in catalytic capital invested in high-impact education nonprofits through The 1954 Project
30+
U.S. nonprofit education leaders supported through the 1954 Project
250+
college students placed in LEAD internships across the social sector
The CAFE Group started with love and family.
The CAFE Group began as a bold act of family philanthropy. Founded by Liz and Don Thompson, who believe that genius exists everywhere and that resources can transform imagination into realities that benefit everyone, the early vision for their Cleveland Avenue Foundation for Education was clear: invest early, lead with love, and trust in the inherent genius already at work.
Today, the CAFE Group is an independent nonprofit organization, guided by a growing team and supported by a national network of partners, funders, and supporters.
We're committed to bringing the beautiful simplicity of this mission—leading with love—into reality and expanding what is possible together. This is a space for big dreams and courageous effort. Welcome.
What Love in Action Looks Like
Catch some glimpses of the moments moving us toward a just future.
