Established in 1982, The Frist Foundation is dedicated to sustaining and improving the quality of life in Nashville, Tennessee. As one of the larger foundations in Tennessee, it has been a philanthropic leader, serving as initiator, convener and catalyst among donors and nonprofit organizations.

At present, much of the Foundation's funding is focused on the Frist Center for the Visual Arts. However, in 2009 the Foundation is taking a special interest in helping to sustain Nashville agencies that serve vulnerable populations -- an emphasis reflecting the economic challenges faced by both organizations and their clients.