Originally established in 1951 and later named The McLean Contributionship in 1980, the fund focuses on charitable, educational, and scientific purposes mainly in the greater Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area. It aims to contribute towards Arts, Culture and Humanities, Education, Environment and Animal Welfare, Health and Human Services through grants that have long-term benefits, preferring capital projects over ongoing operating expenses.
The McLean Contributionship's grant-making philosophy emphasizes supporting projects in the Greater Philadelphia area that offer long-term benefits rather than immediate operational needs. Specifically, it favors capital projects with physical assets expected to last three to five years. The grants focus on enhancing lives through environmental understanding and preservation, promoting inclusive communities and racial equity, compassionate care for the ill and aging, and advancements in education and science. Special consideration is also given to projects that motivate young people facing social and economic challenges, improve service delivery and community engagement, and enhance the effectiveness of those in the newspaper and related fields.