Mission

To make the Commonwealth of Virginia more secure through innovative public-private collaboration in homeland security research and development in partnership with Virginia universities. Consistent with the Governor’s objectives to secure the Commonwealth, the Foundation will leverage civic engagement, effective philanthropy, public awareness, and academic programs to elevate preparedness throughout the state.

Vision

Virginia will lead the nation in a new direction for finding resources for homeland security through the establishment of a foundation affiliated with George Mason University. This program will allow individuals and corporations to contribute to the foundation, which will in-turn fund projects to make the Commonwealth more secure. Other universities within Virginia will be invited to participate in areas where they have the expertise and desire to coordinate efforts. Over the next 10-20 years, this foundation will raise millions of dollars and provide the resources, scholarly research, technological focus and sustainable continuity to Virginia’s emergency preparedness programs.

CHSF Purpose

To pursue the following activities:

• To supplement existing education and training programs which promote a deeper understanding and guidance to current needs and problems associated with research to homeland security related defense applications within the United States and its territories to improve our nation’s emergency preparedness.
• To promote and support scholarly research, grants, seminars, and projects in all relevant areas of homeland security as may be required on state, regional and national levels.
• To solicit donations from private individuals, corporations, and private entities, and dispense grants and funds in support of the above listed activities.
• To promote, counsel, and advise other organizations committed to similar goals. (However, no part of the resources or programs of the Foundation shall be devoted to the promulgation or support of legislation.)
• To promote and assist George Mason University and other institutions of higher education within the Commonwealth of Virginia, both public and private, in various homeland security studies and actions to include comprehensive training and certification programs.
• To provide emergency relief assistance to Virginians adversely affected by disaster.
• In general, to carry on any other businesses connected with or incidental to the foregoing objects and purposes, and to have and exercise all the power conferred by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia or required to be stated in the Articles of Incorporation.