Generally speaking, the word foundation refers to the creation of something. However, this word can be defined in different ways: First, it is used to refer to the creation or establishment of a city, company or body. Second, the word foundation is used to refer to an organization or society whose members are responsible for carrying out non- profit social, humanitarian and cultural works.
In the field of architecture, for example, the lower part of the walls is called a foundation , which is directly in contact with the ground, transferring the entire load of the structure to it. In this sense, it is very important to build the foundations on firm ground, so that it can bear the full weight of the construction.
In the legal field, a foundation is a legal entity that arises from the creation of a patrimony that has been assigned for altruistic, religious, educational, etc. The foundation can be constituted by natural or legal persons. In general, it is managed by its founder, who establishes the statutes that will guide its operation.
Foundations, as has already been said, tend to be characterized as non-profit entities; however, this is not an impediment for them to be able to engage in lucrative activities in order to obtain resources to fulfill their social objectives.
There are different kinds of foundations, there are sports, cultural, scientific, etc. As well as those that are dedicated to the protection of people at risk of social exclusion, animals, among others.