Churchill Downs Foundation
The Churchill Downs Foundation is committed to providing positive stewardship for the horse racing industry. The Foundation is deeply focused on supporting connections to the equine industry and ensuring its continued growth and stability. In addition to industry-related initiatives, the Foundation is committed to funding that will enhance and invigorate the quality of life for the neighborhoods surrounding Churchill Downs Racetrack.
CDI and its properties follow a long tradition of corporate social responsibility and have been committed charitable partners for decades. The company has had significant impact on the many communities in which we operate, and through corporate giving, over $5 million in charitable grants and in-kind donations is contributed annually to over 800 organizations. The Churchill Downs Foundation exists separately to protect and improve the industry that we love and celebrate as racing fans.
If your request is for an auction item donation or an event sponsorship outside of the horse racing industry, please submit your request through our corporate social responsibility portal here.
The Churchill Downs Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. Its Board of Directors reviews and approves grant requests bi-annually in February and August based on how closely they align with the mission of the Foundation. The grant application process can be found below.
Foundation Initiatives
Through one-of-a-kind events like Supper Under the Spires and charitable enterprises such as the 50/50 Raffle, the Churchill Downs Foundation is seeks ways to engage horseracing fans. Thanks to your incredible financial partnership, the Foundation has had the opportunity to support individuals and organizations advocating for and doing important work within the industry, like those working in the fields of Thoroughbred aftercare, disabled jockeys and the backside communities of our racetracks. These groups are often the “unsung heroes” of the Kentucky Derby and the industry as a whole, and the Foundation is proud to offer its steadfast advocacy and support.
R.E.I.N. Fund
Relief for Equine Industry Needs (R.E.I.N.) was established by the Churchill Downs Foundation in response to needs in the racing industry as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent interruption of customary racing operations. The emergency relief fund specifically addresses the needs of backside communities by providing meals, micro-grants and financial assistance with emergency needs as well as the fulfillment of essential care for horses. You can make a donation to the R.E.I.N. Fund via the PayPal button below.