GCYF (originally called GCY Grantmakers for Children and Youth) is an affinity group begun in 1985 as a part of the Council on Foundations.  Today, it is an independent 501(c)(3) organization.

Over much of its twenty year history, the primary programming activity of GCYF has been its annual conference. These conferences have been held in cities around the country and have focused on a wide range of themes. Among others, these themes have included: childhood and family poverty, building strong child-centered families and communities, and the roles played by race, class and ethnicity in the lives of children, youth and families. Each conference is designed to convene grantmakers and provide them with the tools and contacts necessary to raise the value of their grantmaking.

GCYF has had an ongoing commitment to provide grantmakers with up-to-date information about the philanthropic world. Consequently, over the years GCYF has provided its membership with a news bulletin, topical papers addressing current grantmaking issues, and directories of grantmakers. Today, GCYF has expanded its programming to include colleague-to-colleague teleconferences and audio-conferences; events at the Council of Foundations annual conference; a searchable member database; a monthly electronic newsletter; meetings and other forums on cutting-edge issues; and an occasional journal publication, known as GCYF Insight.

Throughout its twenty year history, GCYF has served as an important forum for exchanging information on effective grantmaking strategies and program models. Most importantly, GCYF remain dedicated to a clear-cut mission: elevating the ability of foundations to improve the wellbeing of children, youth and families.