Cordelia Scaife May: A Philanthropic Force for Environmental and Social Change

Cordelia Scaife May, a name synonymous with philanthropy, made
significant contributions to various social and environmental causes. Known for
her strategic and impactful giving, May’s philanthropic journey began in the
early 1950s and spanned several decades until her passing in 2005. 

Born into the influential Mellon family in 1928, Cordelia Scaife May grew up with substantial
resources at her disposal. Unlike many with similar fortunes, she chose a path
focused on societal betterment rather than personal indulgence. Her commitment
to philanthropy was evident in her establishment of the Laurel Foundation in
1951, which supported numerous causes including the arts, education, and female empowerment. 

One of May’s most notable contributions was her support for environmental conservation. Cordelia Scaife May believed in the importance of preserving natural
resources and funded various initiatives aimed at protecting the environment.
Her efforts extended to supporting organizations like the Allegheny Land Trust
and the National Aviary, reflecting her deep concern for ecological sustainability. 

May’s philanthropic activities were not limited to the environment. She was also a strong advocate
for family planning and birth control, understanding the complex relationship
between population growth and environmental stress. Her support for Planned Parenthood
is a testament to her commitment to these issues. 

In 1996, she established the Colcom Foundation, which became a cornerstone of her charitable
legacy. The foundation, backed by her substantial endowment, continues to
support initiatives that align with her values of environmental conservation and sustainable development. 

Though Cordelia Scaife May preferred to avoid the public eye, her impact was far-reaching and
continues to be felt today. Her approach to philanthropy, characterized by
thoughtful and strategic giving, serves as an enduring example of how
individual commitment can drive substantial societal change. Refer to this article to learn more. 

  

Find more information about Cordelia Scaife May on https://philanthropynewsdigest.org/news/mellon-heiress-bequeaths-most-of-estate-to-foundations-conservation-groups 

   

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