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The Frist Foundation, originally called The HCA Foundation, was established in 1982 by Hospital Corporation of America. The Foundation became independent of the company in 1994. In 1997, the Foundation changed its name to The Frist Foundation to recognize the philanthropic influence of its founding directors, Dr. Thomas F. Frist, Jr., who remains a director, and Dr. Thomas F. Frist, Sr., who died in 1998.
Its basic mission is to invest in nonprofit organizations in Metropolitan Nashville in ways that strengthen their ability to provide services. As a private foundation, much of the Foundation's work involves grantmaking. However, the Foundation also takes an active role in initiating special programs to enhance the community in a variety of other ways.
The Frist Foundation, originally called The HCA Foundation, was created. In its first three years of existence, it would help establish the Young Leaders Council, the Center for Nonprofit Management and the Salute to Excellence Awards.
After steady efforts over eight years by staff of The Frist Foundation, the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee was established.
In 1997, the Foundation changed its name to The Frist Foundation to recognize the philanthropic influence of its founding directors, Dr. Thomas F. Frist, Jr. and Dr. Thomas F. Frist, Sr.
The Frist Center for Visual Arts opens. Later renamed the Frist Art Museum.
The Foundation launched a "Bridging Cultures" grant program to help Nashville agencies improve service to immigrants and refugees. Also committed seed funding to establish the Nashville Public Education Foundation.
Served as the lead underwriter for an effort by Nashville's Agenda to survey the community on its dreams for the future. Led to development of city plans connected to infrastructure and tourism.
The Nashville Zoo launches $160 million capital campaign with support from the Foundation.
The Foundation was the lead funder for CNM's Collective Impact educational and consulting efforts.
The Nashville Public Education Foundation was launched in The Frist Foundation boardroom.
Much of the original Art Deco design of The Frist Art Museum was carefully preserved by Tuck Hinton architects in the Center's restoration.
In the past five years alone, The Frist Foundation has given more than $50 million in grants to the nonprofit community.