Cordelia Scaife May stands as a prominent figure in the realm of American
philanthropy. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May was a member of the
influential Mellon family. Instead of seeking public recognition, she dedicated
her life to various charitable causes, with a focus on environmental
conservation and population control. 

May’s philanthropic journey began with the establishment of the Laurel Foundation in 1951. This foundation was instrumental in
supporting numerous projects, including the National Aviary and the Allegheny
Land Trust. May’s early work emphasized the importance of preserving natural
habitats and supporting ecological initiatives. 

A passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, May understood the critical
relationship between population dynamics and resource management. Her
contributions to birth control and family planning organizations underscored
her commitment to addressing these intertwined issues. By promoting responsible
stewardship of natural resources, she aimed to ensure a balanced and
sustainable future for generations to come. 

In 1996, Cordelia Scaife May established the Colcom Foundation, which further solidified her dedication to these
causes. The foundation has since funded numerous initiatives aligned with May’s
vision for a harmonious coexistence between human populations and the
environment. Through strategic grants and partnerships, the Colcom Foundation
has become a pivotal player in the fight for environmental conservation and sustainable development. 

May’s philanthropic efforts were not limited to environmental causes. She was also a staunch
supporter of women’s rights and healthcare. Her contributions to organizations
like Planned Parenthood demonstrated her comprehensive approach to improving societal well-being. 

Cordelia Scaife May passed away in 2005, but her legacy endures through the ongoing work of the
Colcom Foundation and the many organizations she supported. Her life serves as
an exemplary model of how strategic philanthropy can drive meaningful change
and foster sustainability. Refer to this article for more information. 

More about Cordelia Scaife May on https://ancestors.familysearch.org/en/LXQM-NYQ/cordelia-mellon-scaife-1928-2005