Creating a climate where everyone can thrive and flourish
The Barnes Family Foundation creates long-term initiatives that advance social well-being through innovative research, tools, and solutions.
The Barnes Family Foundation creates long-term initiatives that advance social well-being through innovative research, tools, and solutions.
The Barnes Family Foundation develops bold, cross-sector solutions that help individuals, families, and communities flourish. We focus on the core drivers of social well-being— human connection, trusted data, and social innovation.
Our work spans local communities, national collaboratives, and global conversations. From scaling tools that build stronger relationships to developing new ways to measure social well-being, our initiatives create ripple effects far beyond any single initiative.
Through sustained collaboration, we help shape the systems
and tools that build a more connected, compassionate world.
Dan Barnes is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist who leads the Barnes Family Foundation as Executive Chair. His work centers on unlocking long-term impact through social innovation, connection, and collaborative problem-solving.
A longtime supporter and partner of United Way, Dan brings a deep commitment to strengthening community systems. His vision has guided
the creation of groundbreaking efforts like Sunny, Social Weather and the Report on Social Connection—backed by a belief that science, generosity, and bold ideas can help everyone thrive and flourish. His approach to philanthropy blends data and empathy, with a focus on sustainable models that serve the public good.