Shannon Lawder

Contact information: phone: 44.208.996.5051; e-mail: slawder@mott.org

Organization: Charles Stewart Mott Foundation was created in 1926

Organization’s biography: The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, established in 1926 in Flint, Michigan, by an automotive pioneer, is a private philanthropy committed to supporting projects that promote a just, equitable and sustainable society. It supports nonprofit programs throughout the U.S. and, on a limited geographic basis, internationally. Grantmaking is focused in four programs: Civil Society, Environment, Flint Area and Pathways Out of Poverty. Besides Flint, offices are located in metropolitan Detroit, Johannesburg (South Africa) and London.

My most meaningful place in South Africa: The most meaningful place in South Africa for me would have to be Durban.  My father and his mother were born in Durban, and my father grew up in nearby Gillits. Sadly, they have both passed away but whenever I am in Durban, I feel more connected to them.  I now understand why my father didn’t like the weather in Canada and found North America boring at times. In addition to this family connection, I love Durban’s tropical climate, beautiful beaches and excellent food. The countryside around Durban is stunning and the light hitting the swaying fields of sugar cane on a sunny afternoon is magical. 

Organization contact info: 

Phone: 44-208-996-5050
E-mail: info@mott.org
Web site: www.mott.org