Dorothy W. and J. D. Stetson Coleman, founders of the Coleman Foundation were successful entrepreneurs and investors with a deep desire to increase community awareness of opportunities that could improve quality of life. During their lives, the Foundation conducted a limited grant-making effort. The Colemans supported local and national organizations as well as numerous targeted programs. They were vital, active people whose efforts and resources were directed to their business activities - the best known in the local Chicagoland area was the Fannie May Candies company.

J. D. passed away unexpectedly in 1975, followed by Dorothy in 1977. The proceeds from their estates were used to endow the foundation to assure the continuation of their philanthropic efforts.

As the Foundation became fully endowed in 1981, the Board of Directors developed and expanded the role of the Foundation and its funding initiatives. An aggressive grantmaking campaign targeted organizational support for programs that include initiatives such as entrepreneurship education and awareness, educational programs, cancer research, treatment and care, and housing and education for developmentally disabled and handicapped individuals.

In all of its endeavors, the Coleman Foundation proceeds from the liberating spirit of entrepreneurial business ventures, which created the wealth entrusted to the Board of Directors. Since its inception, the Foundation has granted over $110 million towards local and national programs.