Mission Statement

The Tolstoy Foundation was founded more than a half century ago on the premise that it would be committed to the respect of human dignity, freedom of choice and building self-reliance through education and practical training.

The Friends of Tolstoy, established as an affiliate of the Tolstoy Foundation, is dedicated to the continuation of the vision of Alexandra Lvovna Tolstoy, youngest daughter of the respected Russian author, Leo Tolstoy. Alexandra Lvovna's empathy for the plight of the peoples of her homeland and her abhorrence of all forms of human suffering remains at the heart of the Foundation's charitable activities today.

The Friends of Tolstoy endeavors to complement the experience and the knowledge of the Tolstoy Foundation by enlisting the efforts of motivated young professionals to further the Foundation's humanitarian pursuits. In doing so, the Friends of Tolstoy believes it can enhance the depth and the breadth of the Foundation's reach. It is this unique union and blending of generations that will ensure a successful organization for many years to come.

The Friends of Tolstoy has as its specific goals the mobilization of resources, both human and monetary, to assist not only the continuing international efforts of the Tolstoy Foundation, but also other worldly concerns which merit support and attention. Entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring the success of the Tolstoy Foundation for succeeding generations, the Friends of Tolstoy holds dear the principles of the Tolstoy Foundation as set forth in this Mission Statement.