A legacy of generosity.
A future of hope.

Purposeful philanthropy that strengthens communities and builds brighter futures for children and families in need.

About The Sam J. Frankino Foundation

The Sam J. Frankino Foundation (SJFF) is a private family foundation dedicated to improving lives, strengthening communities, and creating opportunity for children and families facing hardship.

Rooted in compassion and guided by a legacy of generosity, the foundation partners with mission-driven organizations to address critical human needs—supporting programs that provide economic assistance, food security, safe shelter, and vital services for vulnerable individuals and families. Through thoughtful collaboration, SJFF works to create environments where people feel supported, empowered, and inspired to pursue brighter futures.

Community and culture are central to the foundation’s values. SJFF proudly supports the Italian-American community and celebrates its rich cultural heritage, while also investing in education and personal development initiatives that nurture growth, resilience, and lifelong opportunity.
The foundation is deeply committed to advancing medical and surgical research and to supporting innovative healthcare facilities that provide comprehensive, compassionate care in healing-centered environments. In addition, SJFF champions the arts as a vital expression of culture and personal growth, and supports environmental initiatives that protect and sustain future generations.

With a primary focus on Ohio, The Sam J. Frankino Foundation also supports initiatives throughout the United States and internationally. Through purposeful giving and enduring partnerships, the foundation continues to build a legacy of hope, dignity, and opportunity for generations to come.

SAM J. FRANKINO

(1924-2009)

The Founder

Founder: Mr. Sam J. Frankino (1924–2009)

Sam J. Frankino’s life is a testament to hard work, integrity, and compassion. Born into an Italian-American family in Cleveland during the Great Depression, Sam experienced firsthand the challenges of financial hardship. Despite these struggles, his family remained close-knit, united by shared meals, faith, and a commitment to helping one another. From an early age, Sam embraced the values of hard work, thrift, and generosity—principles that would shape his life and legacy. By age 12, he was working multiple small jobs to help support his family, driven by a deep sense of responsibility and love.

A pivotal influence in Sam’s life was his mother, who taught him the importance of being frugal, the value of diligent work, and the duty to serve those less fortunate. These lessons became the cornerstone of Sam’s lifelong philosophy and are at the heart of the foundation that bears his name. His commitment to faith, family, and community is a legacy he passed down to his family and continues to inspire the work of The Sam J. Frankino Foundation.

SAM J. FRANKINO

(1924-2009)

The Sam J. Frankino Legacy

Words from Lorraine Frankino-Dodero, the Executive Director-Trustee

“My father, Sam J. Frankino, taught our family that giving back is one of life’s greatest privileges. He showed us that through both our time and our blessings, we have the power to touch lives, uplift communities, and create meaningful change.

At The Sam J. Frankino Foundation, we are honored to partner with nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving women, children, and families facing difficult challenges. Through initiatives that advance education, meet basic human needs, support innovative healthcare solutions, protect our environment, and nurture the arts, we strive to make a lasting and meaningful impact.

Our family has been richly blessed by God’s grace, and it is our heartfelt desire to share those blessings with others. In all that we do, we seek to honor my father’s legacy by restoring dignity, creating opportunity, and helping to build stronger, more vibrant communities for generations to come.”

After serving as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II, Sam returned home eager to build a better future for his young bride and their daughter, Lorraine. Armed with a relentless work ethic and a passion for excellence, he entered the business world and eventually rose to prominence as CEO of Agency Rent-A-Car and National Auto Credit. A visionary entrepreneur, Sam identified untapped opportunities and navigated the financial market with remarkable skill. Yet it was his unwavering commitment to hard work that truly set him apart, leading him to become a self-made multi-millionaire.

Throughout his career, Sam created thousands of jobs, impacting countless lives. He led with humility and integrity, maintaining an “open door” policy and mentoring many, including his daughter Lorraine. Despite his financial success, Sam remained grounded and approachable, living without extravagance and always keeping his trademark wry sense of humor. Whether in the company of dignitaries, business leaders, neighbors, or children, Sam treated everyone with respect and warmth.

Sam never lost sight of his roots or his commitment to giving back. He carried his Italian-American heritage with pride and held steadfast to his work ethic and compassion for those in need. His legacy of generosity, leadership, and dedication to community lives on through The Sam J. Frankino Foundation. Today, the foundation carries forward his mission of helping others, remaining steadfast in his vision of improving lives and making a lasting impact on the world—one person at a time.

Lorraine Frankino-Dodero

The Sam J. Frankino Foundation
(Executive Director – Trustee)

The Sam J. Frankino Foundation

(Executive Director – Trustee)

Leadership and Legacy

The Sam J. Frankino Foundation is led by Executive Director Lorraine Frankino-Dodero and a dedicated Board of Directors who steward the foundation’s mission with care, integrity, and vision. Together, they ensure that resources are invested responsibly in organizations and initiatives that create meaningful, lasting impact for children, families, and communities.

Lorraine’s leadership reflects the heart of the Frankino family and a forward-looking commitment to philanthropic excellence. Through strategic planning, hands-on engagement, and trusted partnerships, she and the board champion innovative solutions that strengthen communities and expand opportunities.

Rooted in the enduring values of founder Mr. Sam Frankino, the foundation continues to honor his legacy of compassion, generosity, and service. Through purposeful giving and enduring partnerships, The Sam J. Frankino Foundation carries his vision forward—bringing hope, restoring dignity, and building brighter futures for generations to come.