Notice: The Lewis & Joan Lowenstein Foundation is not currently accepting new grant applications.
Rooted in Houston · Lasting Impact

A Legacy of
Generosity
& Service

The Lewis and Joan Lowenstein Foundation carries forward a lifelong commitment to education, community, and human dignity — honoring two lives defined by humble beginnings, hard work, and compassion for others.

Lewis and Joan Lowenstein
Lewis & Joan Lowenstein · Houston, Texas
Our Foundation

Guided by Enduring Values

Established to carry forward the philanthropic spirit of Lewis and Joan Lowenstein, the Foundation supports initiatives that create meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of others.

Education & Opportunity

The Lowensteins believed deeply in the transformative power of education. The Foundation honors this by supporting scholarships, academic programs, and initiatives that open doors for young people with potential to make a difference.

Community & Human Services

From healthcare and senior services to faith-based initiatives and community development, the Foundation invests in the fabric of Houston and beyond — strengthening the communities Lewis and Joan loved.

Integrity & Faith

Hard work, personal responsibility, and compassion were more than ideals — they were a way of life for the Lowensteins. The Foundation continues to support Jewish organizations and faith-based programs that reflect these principles.

From Humble Beginnings to a Lasting Legacy

Lewis Lowenstein was born in Missouri and met Joan Shyer in Tennessee, where the two married in 1935. They later settled in Houston, where Lewis built a successful automobile finance business that eventually expanded across 10 states.

After retiring in 1960, Lewis devoted much of his time and energy to philanthropy, community support, and helping others. Joan passed away in 1998, and Lewis died in 2010 at the age of 100.

The Lowensteins believed strongly in hard work, personal responsibility, and compassion for others. They valued education, opportunity, and the importance of investing in people — particularly young people with the potential to make a difference in the world.

Generosity Integrity Education Faith Service Compassion

"We are inspired by the brilliant students at the Technion. Their futures hold so much promise for humanity. We believe in helping young people reach for the stars."

Harold Hidalgo Sr. · Foundation Trustee
1935

Lewis and Joan marry in Tennessee and begin building their life together.

1940s

The Lowensteins settle in Houston, where Lewis establishes a thriving automobile finance business spanning 10 states.

1960

Lewis retires and devotes himself fully to philanthropy, community service, and helping others.

1998

Joan Lowenstein passes away, leaving behind a profound legacy of warmth and generosity.

2010

Lewis Lowenstein passes at the age of 100. The Foundation is established to carry his values forward for generations to come.

Where We Invest

Over the years, the Foundation has supported a wide range of charitable organizations in Houston and beyond, with particular emphasis on the following areas.

🎓
Education & Scholarships

Supporting student scholarships, academic achievement programs, and educational institutions that expand access and opportunity.

🏥
Healthcare

Funding organizations that advance healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and serve the medical needs of underserved communities.

✡️
Jewish Organizations

Supporting Jewish institutions, cultural programs, and faith-based initiatives that preserve heritage and strengthen community bonds.

🙏
Faith-Based Initiatives

Partnering with organizations rooted in faith that provide social services, community support, and moral guidance.

👴
Senior Services

Investing in programs that support elderly individuals, providing care, dignity, and quality of life in their later years.

🌆
Community Development

Funding organizations that build stronger communities through housing, civic programs, and long-term infrastructure for those in need.

Leadership

Board of Directors

The Foundation is guided by a dedicated board of directors and advisory board committed to honoring the Lowensteins' enduring vision.

Board of Directors
HH
Harold Hidalgo Sr.
Board of Directors
LW
Leonard Weiner
Board of Directors
AM
Anna Marie Hidalgo
Board of Directors
AP
Amy Peck
Board of Directors
Advisory Board
DH
Douglas Hidalgo
Advisory Board
GP
Geoff Peck
Advisory Board
Foundation Administrator
Diane Guiberteau
diane.guiberteau@gmail.com

Contact the Foundation

All correspondence, including proposal inquiries, should be directed via email to our Foundation Administrator. Please review our grant status notice before reaching out.

The Lewis and Joan Lowenstein Foundation is a private foundation rooted in Houston, Texas, with a mission to create meaningful and lasting impact through thoughtful, values-driven philanthropy.

Grant Application Status

The Lewis and Joan Lowenstein Foundation is not currently accepting new grant applications. We appreciate your interest and encourage you to check back at a future date.

Foundation Administrator
Diane Guiberteau
All correspondence should be directed to Diane
Location
Houston, Texas
Type
Private Foundation