Contributing to Hope

The strength of Mayo Clinic's programs depends on the support of many individuals, families, corporations and foundations who share our commitment and values. They tell us they want to be part of efforts to improve medical care, to find new treatments for disease, to train the next generation of medical and scientific professionals.

Giving has always been a part of Mayo Clinic. In 1915, the Mayo School of Graduate Medical Education opened with an endowment from Mayo founders Drs. William J. and Charles H. Mayo. Four years later, the Mayo brothers dissolved their partnership and turned over the clinic's name and assets, including the bulk of their life savings, to a private, not-for-profit, charitable organization now known as Mayo Clinic. "We want the money to go back to the people, from whom it came," Dr. Will Mayo said.

Each year, thousands of benefactors -- many of whom also are Mayo patients -- similarly give back by providing philanthropic support to Mayo Clinic. Their support is critical to important Mayo initiatives to enhance quality and safety, to translate medical discoveries to patient care, and to transform medical education.

Their words tell their stories.

"Mayo saved my life. I'm grateful for the expertise that helped me, and I want it to be available for other people in the future."

"My husband really appreciated his Mayo physicians. He always said that the world needs good young doctors … he would love these students that we support."

"My goal is to impact one person's life so that when they begin their professional lives, they'll impact thousands of people in turn."