Whiteman 4G Foundation

John O. Whiteman, president of the long-established Whiteman Foundation, sought to create a foundation for his 11 grandchildren. In 2006, the grandchildren, then ages 10 to 16, worked with John to create the foundation, named 4G because these young people are the fourth generation of the Whiteman family to be involved in philanthropy.

At the organization’s first meeting, John O. Whiteman discussed the major philanthropic spheres for the grandchildren to consider when making grants. The board voted for the following areas of focus:

  • Human Services, including Children’s Issues, Abandonment, Responsible Parenting, Harassment and Bullying
  • Health, including Children’s Cancers, Diabetes and other issues
  • Education, including Scholarships and Infant Brain Development Research

During its first year of operation, the 4G Foundation made grants to Chrysalis, Banner East Children’s Hospital, East Valley Child Crisis Center, Liberty Wildlife and UMOM New Day Center.

Through the Generations

“The foundation allows the kids to see how people live every day. They live in a protective bubble. It’s been good for them to see that not everyone has the benefits in life that they have, but it also allows them to see they can make a difference in the lives of others.” 
–Jeff Whiteman, CEO of Empire Southwest and father of four 4G members

“We are in such a unique position in our community, in that we have opportunities to change things for the better. Even if it’s only a drop in the ocean, we can be part of something great. The legacy left to us by our forebears is that we share and do good with what we have been given. This is what I want to do and this is what I want to pass down.” 
–Christy Whiteman Wilson, mother of five 4G members

4G Grant History

2009

  1. Singleton Moms $10,000
  2. Azbrainfood $10,000

2008

  1. Wellness Community $8,000
  2. St Vincent DePaul $8,000
  3. United Food Bank $15,000
  4. Florence Crittenden $4,000
  5. New Global Citizens $3,000
  6. Genesis High School $3,000
  7. Santa Elves $2,500

2007

  1. East Valley Child Crisis Center $12,000
  2. Banner East Children’s Hospital $6,000
  3. Chrysalis $8,000
  4. Liberty Wildlife $4,000
  5. UMOM $7,500
  6. Santa Elves $2,500