Our Foundation

Charlie Martin is an entrepreneur and businessman who established The Martin Foundation in 1997.  Raised in the community of Cowpen, Alabama, Charlie was the first in his immediate family to graduate from high school and college. His life has been shaped by the belief that opportunity should not be limited to zip code, family wealth or connections.

The Foundation exist to put resources to work without fanfare, strengthening individuals, families and community through practical support and long-term partnership. We don’t approach giving as a favor; we approach it as stewardship—clear-eyed about what helps, honesty about what we are not, and commitment to dignity in every interaction.

“A society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they will never sit in.”

-Greek Proverb

Mission Statement:

The Martin Foundation is a private, family foundation serving Davidson County.  We support individuals and nonprofit organizations by contributing, listening, collaborating and  experimenting with others.

Vision Statement:

We strive to share time, talent, treasure, testimony and ties with our community in a way that strengthens individuals, organizations and us to be the best versions of ourselves we can be.  Together we can change our world.