Public records reveal that the Obama Foundation directed $2 million to the Tides Foundation in 2022 and 2023. The Obama Foundation stated the funds were intended to support local organizations working to reduce violence and promote safe environments for youth across the U.S. These grants were part of a broader initiative to address “surging summer violence,” according to a foundation spokeswoman.
The Tides Foundation, known for supporting progressive causes, acts as a fiscal sponsor for groups that haven’t formally registered as charities. It has previously been connected to a variety of organizations, some of which have supported pro-Palestinian activism. The House Ways and Means Committee is currently reviewing Tides’ funding practices, including its sponsorship of groups involved in campus protests following the October 2023 Hamas attacks in Israel.
The Obama Foundation clarified that the Tides Center’s role was administrative — processing grants — while Cities United, a nonprofit, handled the application and selection process for the funded groups. Over 50 organizations reportedly received support through this program.
Tides has also managed donations for other major initiatives, including the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, which is involved in an ongoing legal case regarding alleged financial mismanagement. That lawsuit, however, is unrelated to the Obama Foundation.
Additionally, the Obama Foundation donated over $3 million to GoFundMe.org in the same period. These funds were designated for programs aimed at empowering girls through education and supporting grassroots leadership initiatives.
Meanwhile, there have been broader political discussions surrounding progressive donors. Recent reports indicate the Justice Department is exploring the funding activities of several nonprofit organizations. Officials have stated that investigations are focused on ensuring public safety and enforcing federal laws, with no direct connection yet established to the Obama Foundation or its grant-making activities.
