Giving back to his community is a principle that Leo Castagnari has held dear since his childhood. His father was a bricklayer, and his mother worked as a waitress “so it wasn't really about giving money — it was about giving time.”

With parents who instilled in him the importance of helping others, Leo has tried to “give back” through the volunteer and financial support of a variety of human service agencies in the region. Since establishing the Castagnari Family Charitable Fund at The Pittsburgh Foundation in October 2002, he has continued to give time, as well as grants, to each of the organizations supported by his family's fund.

Castagnari chose to create his fund when his mother became ill. “I wanted to create a legacy to honor my parents, and I wanted to do so while my mother was still alive,” said Leo. “It was gratifying for me, and I think mom was proud.”

Among the organizations he supports with the Castagnari Family Charitable fund through time or grants are Gilda's Club of Western Pa., the Women's Center and Shelter, Shepherd Wellness Community, Leadership Pittsburgh, the American Cancer Society, and Make-A-Wish Foundation. Castagnari serves on Leadership Pittsburgh, has taped boxes at the Food Bank, helped Persad with fundraising and has undertaken strategic planning with The Good Grief Center. 

One especially important grant to Leo was given through the American Cancer Society. “It's called The New You program,” explained Leo. “Women in commercial real estate got together and started it. They decided to hand sew “Satchels of Caring” for women undergoing chemotherapy.” The satchels include things such as a turban, a journal, and inspirational literature.

One of Castagnari’s favorite sayings is: “Much is required from those to whom much has been given." It helped lead him to The Pittsburgh Foundation.

“I am so happy and proud to be a member of The Pittsburgh Foundation family,” he said. Leo is a member of the Foundation's Inside Story Committee which identifies local non-profits for site visits, giving donors the opportunity to learn about charitable organizations.