"Kansas City saw my company through the lean years, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to give back." ~ Henry Bloch, co–founder of H&R Block and Chairman of The H & R Block Foundation.

Established in 1974, The H & R Block Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life by responding to the needs of people and communities through thoughtful, innovative, and responsible philanthropy. The Foundation provides grants through three distribution areas:

H&R Block Associates

Since inception, the Foundation has supported H&R Block associates in their involvement in their communities. In 1975, the Matching Gift program was launched to supports associates' commitment to education by matching contributions to private secondary schools, colleges, and universities. Recognizing that not every associate can make monetary donations, in 1993, the Foundation launched the Cash for Champions program recognizing volunteerism by providing a cash donation to honor the associate's commitment to a nonprofit organization.

Additionally, in 1985, the Foundation presented the first Outstanding Community Service Award to a H&R Block headquarters' associate for their commitment to Kansas City. In 2000, the program was expanded, to recognize associates from across the country for their service to their communities.

Community Grantmaking

It's commitment to serving low-income, underserved individuals and improving the quality of life in Kansas City is evident in the Foundation's community grantmaking. The Foundation has provided millions of dollars to nonprofit organizations in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture - improve access to the arts for all people
• Community Development - build stable neighborhoods and communities
• Education - offer diverse learning opportunities for all ages
• Health and Human Service - access to services that respond to individuals' physical and emotional needs

Foundation Programs

In 2001, in honor of Henry's retirement from the board of H&R Block, Inc., the Foundation presented two gifts to Kansas City. First, was the Henry Wollman Bloch Fountain, a 232-jet fountain, located in front of a Kansas City icon - Union Station. Second, was the Henry W. Bloch Scholars program. This program provides non-traditional students and urban youth, with the opportunity to receive a college degree. Each year, the program provides a total of 90 urban students the opportunity to earn their associates' and transfer to receive their bachelors' degrees. This program is in partnership with MCC-Penn Valley, Donnelly College, and the University of Missouri-Kansas City.