About the Foundation
The Claude Pepper Foundation, a not-for-profit corporation, was established by Claude Pepper in 1986. Having been a key participant in shaping the extensive, momentous public policy of the 1900s, Senator Pepper knew the educational potential and historical significance of his vast collection of papers, images, recordings, and memorabilia. He established the Claude Pepper Foundation to provide the resources to properly preserve, store, conserve, and make available the collection and to develop curricula and public activities that would maximize its educational potential. Since its founding, the Foundation has not only fulfilled that purpose but has developed extensive programs to further the objectives of Senator Pepper as evidenced by the causes he championed throughout his political career.
The goals of the Foundation are based upon the principles by which Claude and Mildred Pepper lived their lives. They were the unrelenting enemy of poverty, injustice, oppression and every other source of unhappiness and degradation to which humans beings are subject. Claude Pepper believed it was a proper and necessary function of government to provide the economic and social conditions which made it possible for the individual to realize his or her full potential. He believed the individual also had a duty to contribute to the advancement of social justice through personal practices and community activity.
Consistent with Claude Pepper's dedicated efforts to meet the needs and maximize the potential of all people, especially the elderly, The Pepper Foundation uses its financial and other resources to develop The Pepper Center at Florida State University into one of the country's major education, research and public outreach service centers. The Claude Pepper Library, which houses Pepper's extensive collection of historical documents, empirical data and memorabilia, and the exhibits of the Claude Pepper Museum are valuable adjuncts of the Center.
Additionally, The Claude Pepper Foundation pursues its mission by gathering, assimilating, and distributing data; organizing conferences on public policy issues; and providing outreach services to the public.
The Pepper Foundation awards grants on a limited basis to specific endeavors which are consistent with the stated purposes and goals of the Foundation.