The Joseph Drown Foundation was formed in 1953 to provide an organized means for its founder, Joseph Warford Drown, to make charitable gifts during his lifetime and to have the Foundation continue making grants upon his death.

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Joseph Drown, whose life spanned the period of 1906 to 1982, was active in the hotel industry from his early 20's until the end of his career. He started as an employee, then in management and subsequently ownership. His prize ownership, which he personally developed in 1945, was the Hotel Bel-Air in Los Angeles. He also employed his business skills in the acquisition and operation of numerous other businesses and properties.

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The Foundation attempts to reflect directly the interests of Joseph Drown by focusing its resources on the areas which particularly concerned him. These include education, medical and scientific research; community, health and social services and, to a lesser degree, the arts and humanities.

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The Foundation's goal is to assist individuals in becoming successful, self-sustaining, contributing citizens. The Foundation is interested in programs that break down any barrier that prevents a person from continuing to grow and learn.