The John J. Murray Foundation is a non-profit organization which currently provides funding to The Scleroderma Research Center at Thomas Jefferson University of Philadelphia, PA and Salesianum School in Wilmington, DE. Created in 2002, the Foundation was established to remember the philanthropic spirit of John J. Murray who passed away on September 11, 2001.

Scleroderma
The Scleroderma Research Center is located at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA ("The Scleroderma Research Center"), is one of the few facilities in the United States which seeks to find a cause and cure for scleroderma. This relatively obscure disease is characterized by the over production of collagen in the body. This can cause hardening of the skin, joints and internal organs resulting in disfiguration, disability and even death.

The Scleroderma Research Center is directed by Sergio A. Jiminez MD, The Dorrance H. Hamilton Professor of Medicine and Director of Rheumatology of Jefferson Medical Hospital, an internationally recognized expert and pioneer in his field. Recent findings have shown significant progress in ways to combat this disease but much more work remains to be done.

In 1997, John Murray led the effort to provide funds for The Scleroderma Research Center by organizing and hosting an annual golf outing, the "Putt for Progress". To date, over $275,000 has been raised and donated. The John J. Murray Foundation will continue this support and will provide a portion of the funds raised through the activities to The Scleroderma Research Center.

Additional information regarding The Scleroderma Research Center may be found here.

Salesianum
Salesianum School is a Roman Catholic High School for boys, grades 9 through 12, run by the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. Salesianum, located in Wilmington, Delaware, was founded in 1903. The school is widely recognized for its ability to educate young men to the highest standards of academic and moral excellence. At the present time, approximately 98% of its graduates continue their education at the college level.

The John J. Murray Foundation will contribute a portion of the funds raised through its activities to be used as a scholarship grant to a deserving individual chosen by the school. Scholarship funds have already been established for the 2004/05 and 2005/06 school year.

John Murray was a 1986 graduate of Salesianum.

Additional information regarding Salesianum can be obtained through its website.