The Rock Foundation
Preselected recipients only
The Rock Foundation is a private foundation in Midlothian, Virginia. In tax year 2025 it gave $106,000 in 16 grants; the typical grant was $5,000 and the largest $17,500. It only gives to organizations it selects itself and does not accept unsolicited applications.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$106,000
- Number of grants16
- Typical grant$5,000
- Largest grant$17,500
- Assets$1.8 million
- New grantees75%
Giving in 2025 was up from $97,000 the year before.
75% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, a sign it is open to new organizations.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $100,000 | 16 | $1.6 million |
| 2024 | $97,000 | 15 | $1.7 million |
| 2025 | $106,000 | 16 | $1.8 million |
How to apply
The Rock Foundation says in its IRS filing that it only makes contributions to preselected organizations, so unsolicited applications are unlikely to be considered. Organizations it funds are usually invited.
What The Rock Foundation funds
Where it gives
All of its grants went to recipients in Virginia.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 16 | $106,000 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| VCU Foundation | $10,000 Fashion Design & Merchandising Program; $7,500 Cross-Disciplinary Materials Research Displays | $17,500 |
| John Marshall Center at VA Museum History & Culture | Civics Connect Portfolio | $15,000 |
| Culture Works | Grant for online calendar updates | $7,500 |
| World Pediatrics | Delivery by VA based medical volunteers and hospital partners | $7,500 |
| Elijah House Academy | Scholarships | $6,000 |
| Maymont Foundation | Restoration of the Glass Transom in the Swan Bedroom and Alabaster Urn in the Dining Room | $5,000 |
| CancerLinc | Mission Support | $5,000 |
| Hanover Tavern Foundation | Grounds Enhancement Project | $5,000 |
| Captial Trees | Project support | $5,000 |
| Free Clinic of Powhatan | Grant for operating costs of medical, dental & mental health services | $5,000 |
| Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library Foundation | Annual Support | $5,000 |
| Richmond Symphony League | 2026 Designer Show Home | $5,000 |
| Richmond Ballet | Minds In Motion | $5,000 |
| Soar365 | Respite Program | $5,000 |
| Atlas Partnership | Multifaceted Programming | $5,000 |
| United Way of Greater Richmond | Richmond Christmas Mother Fund | $2,500 |
Officers and trustees
- Rita M Smith
- Hilary M Smith
Questions people ask
Does The Rock Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does The Rock Foundation give?
$106,000 in tax year 2025, across 16 grants, with a typical grant of $5,000.
Who runs The Rock Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Rita M Smith (President/Treasurer/Direct) and Hilary M Smith (VP/Secretary/Director).
What does The Rock Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly arts and culture, health and education.