Madonna Foundation

The Madonna Foundation, established in 2001 by the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago, is a public charity that increases access for young women to attend Catholic high schools in the Chicago area. The Foundation is the only one of its kind in the region focusing exclusively on serving young women with scholarship support and programing. The Madonna Foundation annually awards tuition grants to young women who demonstrate financial need and the potential for academic achievement. Financial support averages $2,700 per year. In many cases, without the Foundation’s scholarships, these young women would not be able to attend Catholic school. In addition to tuition grants, the Foundation provides college and career readiness seminars, leadership and empowerment workshops, spiritual retreats, service-learning opportunities, and one-on-one tutoring support through a variety of dynamic and innovative programs. Our programing provides young women the tools necessary to have a well-rounded education and success in high school, college and their careers. Our scholars build meaningful, productive and successful lives and will be the next generation of educated and compassionate leaders. The Franciscan Sisters of Chicago formed The Madonna Foundation to carry on their legacy of educating young women in the Catholic tradition of excellence. The Foundation educates the whole person by instilling the Franciscan values of Respect, Dedication, Stewardship and Joy.