Who We Are
Established in 2006 at The American University in Cairo (AUC), the John D. Gerhart Center for Philanthropy, Civic Engagement, and Responsible Business is a leading regional hub dedicated to advancing social impact, sustainable development, and AUC’s mission of fostering social responsibility and active citizenship.
Founded on the belief that empowered individuals and organizations can drive meaningful social change, the Gerhart Center operates at the intersection of academia and practice to strengthen civil society, promote effective philanthropy, and advance responsible and inclusive business practices across Egypt and the Arab region. Through a diverse portfolio of programs and initiatives, the Center cultivates innovation, leadership, and collaboration to address pressing social and environmental challenges.
The Center’s work focuses on youth leadership and civic engagement, philanthropy and nonprofit development, social entrepreneurship, research and knowledge production, and responsible business. A cornerstone of its programming is its commitment to social entrepreneurship, supporting aspiring and established changemakers through specialized training, incubators, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on initiatives that equip them with the skills, networks, and resources needed to develop sustainable and scalable solutions.
Over the years, the Gerhart Center has become a pioneer in advancing philanthropy as a catalyst for social development in the Arab world. Through its research, thought leadership, and capacity-building efforts, the Center has helped shape academic and public discourse around philanthropy, opening new avenues for foundations and civil society organizations to create lasting impact.
The Center has also played a transformative role in introducing community-based learning at AUC, integrating academic learning with meaningful service to communities and strengthening the connection between education and social responsibility. Its initiatives include fellowships and leadership development programs for youth, advisory and capacity-building services for nonprofits and social enterprises, applied research that informs policy and practice, and partnerships with the private sector to advance corporate social responsibility and sustainability.
Named after the late AUC President John D. Gerhart, whose legacy exemplified public service and civic responsibility, the Center continues to honor his vision by fostering a culture of engagement, innovation, and social impact.
In 2014, the Gerhart Center became part of the Onsi Sawiris School of Business, a strategic move that expanded its access to business expertise, networks, and human capital. Today, the Center serves as the developmental arm of the School, championing the integration of philanthropy, civic engagement, and responsible business through research, education, community initiatives, and private-sector collaboration. By connecting students, nonprofits, social entrepreneurs, donors, and businesses, the Gerhart Center remains a dynamic platform for innovation and partnership, contributing to more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities across the region.
Vision
A leading platform of interdisciplinary comparative research, youth leadership programs and capacity building to enhance the culture and effectiveness of philanthropy, civic engagement and responsible business practices in the Arab region and Africa.
Mission
To serve as a regional incubator for knowledge, responsible business practices, civic leadership and capacity building to promote effective social responsibility.
Our Aim
The Gerhart Center operates under its three core themes, philanthropy, civic engagement and responsible business, striving to serve and engage society effectively.
We’re here to make an impact!
Our goals are clear:
- Build leadership capacity among Arab youth, enhancing their ability to promote social responsibility and active citizenship
- Positively impact society through social entrepreneurship, mentorship and creativity, while nurturing the next generation of scholars
- Connect the next generation of scholars with a network of social activists, donors and philanthropy professionals
To achieve these goals, we understand that our efforts must extend beyond the resources, knowledge and technology available within our immediate environment.
We’ve expanded our reach to pursue these goals, supported by:
- A diverse range of national, regional and international partners in academia, civil society and the corporate sector
- A rich network of local communities, policymakers, start-ups, foundations, enterprises and NGOs, all of which integrate youth into a broader social framework
More About Us
Thematic Areas
- Philanthropy
- Civic Engagement
- Responsible Business
Objectives
- Foster connections between responsible citizens, civil society and the private and public sectors
- Create a collaborative platform for programs and research that promote civic engagement, philanthropy and responsible business
Values
- Respect
- Transparency
- Proactivity
- Compassion, empathy and giving
- Inclusion and participatory engagement