Gar Foundation

Established in 1967, GAR Foundation was born of the philanthropic desire of the Roush family to support the needs of those in the local community. GAR is an acronym for our founders, Galen and Ruth Roush and is pronounced je-ay-ar.

Galen Roush co-founded Roadway Express during the Great Depression in 1930 with his brother, Carroll. Their first shipment was a load of Goodrich tires which left Akron, OH headed for St. Louis, MO. By 1939, Roadway was the largest long-haul trucking company in the United States. Through careful stewardship and superior service, Roadway Express grew into a global transportation company servicing over 100 countries by the 1990s. Galen believed superior service was much more than delivering freight on-time, it was about the experience. Because of his servant-minded leadership and the innovation of Roadway’s employees, the company excelled in providing extraordinary experiences for their customers for over 80 years.

Galen and his wife Ruth loved their home area of Akron and Summit County and never stopped investing in their community. GAR Foundation was established by Galen and Ruth Roush to be a way in which their legacy of serving others could continue long after they were gone.

Today, GAR Foundation awards over $6 million annually to organizations and programs in the following areas:

Early Childhood Education
K-16 Education
Economic & Workforce Development
Basic Needs
Arts & Culture

MISSION
Our mission is to help Akron become smarter, stronger, and more vibrant.

VISION
Every child gets a great start in life and benefits from a well-rounded education, preparing them for a meaningful, fulfilling life. Companies and opportunities grow in our talent-rich environment. Pathways to prosperity are equitable, accessible, and easily navigated by everyone. All residents and businesses feel connected to Greater Akron, to their neighbors and fellow citizens. They are energized by its creative assets, its abundant opportunities, and its commitment to shared prosperity.

VALUES
At GAR Foundation, we commit to…

Curiosity
We continuously ask questions to learn about community issues and people’s experiences.

Equity
We deal fairly and equitably with all parties, while meeting other where they are.

Humility
We are aware of our place and role (the positives and negatives of it)

Collaboration
We work shoulder to shoulder with our partners, guided by transparency and accountability.

Innovation
We are original and creative in our thinking and approach to the work.