History

The mission of FISA Foundation is to build a culture of respect and improve the quality of life for three populations in southwestern Pennsylvania: women, girls, and people with disabilities. During their long history, beginning with roots planted in the early 1900s, the organization’s focus on these three populations has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the community.

In 1996, to meet the increasing challenges presented by managed care, the trustees of the Harmarville and the Federation decided to sell the Center to a for-profit company that was subsequently purchased by HealthSouth Corporation. As the founder and owner of Harmarville, the Federation received the proceeds of the sale and established the FISA Foundation to continue the legacy of charitable work. Although the acronym was chosen as a tribute to the Federation of Independent School Alumnae, “FISA” is the official, legal name of the Foundation. Today FISA Foundation is the largest grantmaking foundation in the country governed by women.