About

The Funda Foundation

History

The roots of The Funda Foundation trace back to 1971, when Earl and Dr. W. Jean Simpson founded the Golden Gate Day Care Center on the far south side of Chicago. Their vision was to create a nurturing and enriching environment where children could learn, grow, and thrive while supporting working families in the surrounding community.

Over time, the center became more than a childcare facility. As economic conditions shifted and families' needs grew, the Simpsons expanded their efforts beyond early childhood education. Through community partnerships and grassroots initiatives, the organization helped provide essential support to families through clothing and book drives, food and grocery distributions, health and nutrition education, and holiday assistance programs.

After nearly five decades of service, the childcare center was sold in 2019. However, the spirit of community care that Earl and Dr. Jean Simpson established did not end there. When the COVID-19 pandemic exposed and intensified many existing health and economic disparities, the organization evolved to meet new challenges.

Building on its longstanding commitment to community wellbeing, the work continued under a broader mission as The Funda Foundation. Today, the foundation focuses on advancing the health, dignity, and empowerment of girls and women in underserved communities—particularly in areas related to personal hygiene, reproductive health, mental wellness, and self-esteem.

While the mission has expanded, the guiding principles remain the same: service, compassion, and a deep belief in the power of community. The legacy of Earl and Dr. W. Jean Simpson continues through The Funda Foundation’s ongoing work to ensure that girls and women have access to the knowledge, resources, and support they need to live healthy and confident lives. 💜

Legacy

For 50 years and counting, continues to serve the community in various ways. The Simpsons instilled in their children the spirit of giving back, and they now carry the torch, the legacy of service.