The Gruben Charitable Foundation is a private foundation located in Newport RI. It was established in 2008 by Diana Oehrli using an $11 million endowment from her great-great-grandparents, Frederick Henry and Abbie Norman Prince. The foundation makes philanthropic grants and pursues direct philanthropic initiatives.
Since its inception, the GCF has disbursed nearly $8 million.
We dedicate our financial and human capital to not-for-profit initiatives aimed at nurturing the evolution of consciousness on Aquidneck Island.
At the heart of the foundation is Diana Oehrli's personal history, a value system rooted in deep intellectual traditions, and professional acumen. As a Swiss-American, Diana embodies diverse roles — an editor, author, manager, and life coach. She is also the great-grandniece of Charles Sanders Peirce, a luminary philosopher and logician. Her unique skills give Gruben an edge in identifying organizations that are dedicated to elevating consciousness.
Diana’s commitment to her own inner work inspires the rest of Gruben team, and is shared by the leaders of the organizations Gruben supports philanthropically.
Why Inner Growth?
While material prosperity may be rising, suffering still permeates our island, both externally through poverty, crime, illness and pollution, and internally within the human spirit. To create positive change, we must address both outer and inner dimensions.
Many nonprofit initiatives are geared towards external problems but fail to address internal sources.
Internally, many still feel unfulfilled, disconnected and emotionally distressed despite external comforts and convenience. We believe inner growth radiates outward. As individuals gain self-awareness, find purpose, and elevate consciousness, ripples of compassion, empowerment and progress flow into families, organizations and communities.
Our foundation cultivates projects focused on personal growth, mind-body connection, community building and environmental stewardship. We believe in Aquidneck Island's potential for immense positive impact, way beyond its small size.
The island already vibrates with grassroots holistic wellness, civic engagement and ecological conservation efforts. We aim to fund and empower initiatives that harness this vibrancy to create transformation - both internally and externally.
By elevating consciousness, we can foster the creativity, empathy and inspiration to tackle systemic issues, heal divides and enrich life on Aquidneck Island in a manner that sparks wider ripples across Rhode Island, and beyond.
AREAS OF PRIORITY
ENVIRONMENT
Aspiration: Residents are connected with the natural world, fostering an awareness that nurtures environmental stewardship and an appreciation for the island’s unique ecosystems, which are essential to elevating collective consciousness and ensuring sustainable coexistence
Impact Objective: Residents are guardians of their environment, thereby enriching the community's bond with nature and promoting ecological well-being.
Belief: The elevation of consciousness is intrinsically linked to protecting the environment and nature. This understanding of our interconnectedness with the Earth inspires stewardship and a harmonious co-existence with the natural world.
HealthY BODY, MIND, and SPIRIT
Aspiration: A community where the health of body, mind, and spirit is interconnected, creating pathways for residents to access and integrate holistic wellness practices into their lives for a thriving, conscious existence.
Impact Objective: Resources and opportunities for Aquidneck Island resident to nurture a healthy body, an enlightened mind, and a rejuvenated spirit.
Belief: The elevation of consciousness is a harmonious journey that intertwines mind, body, and spiritual health, guiding individuals towards a holistic well-being that resonates with clarity, balance, and inner peace.
Arts and Culture
Aspiration: Forge stronger connections between residents and the vibrant tapestry of local arts and culture, enriching the community's collective consciousness.
Impact Objective: An inclusive atmosphere where arts and culture are integral to daily life.
Belief: Arts and culture serve as a crucible for the elevation of consciousness, offering a reflective surface for individuals to encounter, explore, and expand their perceptions of the world and their place within it.
Community Service & Education
Aspiration: A strong bond between residents and community service and education, encouraging a collaborative spirit and continuous personal growth that benefit both the individual and the wider community.
Impact Objective: Residents are engaged in service and educational opportunities that promote collective well-being and foster a culture of proactive citizenship.
Belief: Community service and education are pivotal in the elevation of consciousness, as they act as conduits for empathy and knowledge, empowering individuals to contribute meaningfully to society and to grow in understanding and compassion.
