Come reimagine how change is resourced.
With us, for all of us.
The CAFE Group brings people, resources, and imagination together to transform philanthropy and the future it fuels.
We fund visionary leaders, invest in rising talent, build organizational strength, and bridge across sectors to reshape how change happens.
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
We move resources and relationships toward a more just future.
Through catalytic funding, deep leadership development, and cross-sector connection, we support people and organizations transforming education and philanthropy from the inside out.
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"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're growing a future where education innovators are resourced with care, young leaders take their next steps with purpose, and philanthropy is fueled by love, courage, and 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. Stemming from Liz and Don Thompson’s belief that genius is everywhere, and resources can turn imagination into realities that benefit everyone, the vision for their Cleveland Avenue Foundation for Education was simple: invest early, lead with love, and trust in the genius already at work.
Today, The CAFE Group is an independent nonprofit organization, led by a growing team and supported by a national network of partners, funders, and believers.
We’re bringing the beautiful simplicity of this work -- our dedication to leading with love -- to reality and expanding what’s possible together. This is a home for big dreams, brave work, and shared impact. Welcome.
What Love in Action Looks Like
Catch some glimpses of the moments moving us toward a just future.
