Supporter Spotlight: Lawrence A. Sanders Foundation

Brooklynite Lawrence Sanders had always possessed a remarkable talent for writing. Following his service in the U.S. Marines, he began writing for editorial magazines before transitioning into writing crime fiction — the field in which he would find great success and publish nearly three dozen novels, including the Arch McNally series about a Palm Beach private investigator.

Three of his novels were even adapted into popular films.

But as his literary career flourished, Sanders felt a deep commitment to giving back to his community. This led him to establish the Lawrence A. Sanders Foundation in 1991, marking a significant contribution to the world he cherished.

For over 25 years, the Lawrence A. Sanders Foundation has been a valuable supporter of the Community Foundation through the Lawrence A. Sanders Fund to Promote Literacy and the Lawrence A. Sanders Scholarship Fund for Creative Writing. These funds have invested more than $2 million at the Community Foundation and supported 40 student scholarships.

This generosity has helped dozens of students hone their literary skills and pursue their passion for creative writing, spreading the joy of writing, reading, and storytelling far and wide.

“Mr. Sanders was committed to using his wealth to create a lasting impact in the community,” said J. Daniel Brede, the late author’s estate planning attorney. “He was comfortable collaborating with the Community Foundation because he knew they had the staff and research ability to identify where his giving would have the greatest impact.”