Welcome to the Leandro De Niro Rodriguez Foundation

A voice for a better future

The Leandro De Niro Rodriguez Foundation (LDR) makes meaningful grants to grassroots organizations supporting young people and families affected by substance use disorder and dangerous drugs.

We support efforts focused on treatment, recovery, rehabilitation, prevention, and helping families navigate unimaginable loss with compassion and care. 

We also invest in arts and arts education programs that give young people opportunities to create, explore, and express themselves – because healing and mental well-being are supported not only by protection and treatment, but also by connection, purpose, and possibility.

This foundation was created in loving memory of our precious son and grandson, with the hope of helping others avoid this heartbreak and create more pathways toward healing and hope.

A non-profit created to provide more pathways toward healing and hope and a safer drug free world for future generations.

Drena De Niro & Robert De Niro

Why This Matters

  • Young people need support built for them

    Many treatment and recovery resources were designed for adults, leaving young people and families struggling to find the care they need.

  • Substance use disorder and mental health often overlap

    Healing often means supporting the whole person, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and other underlying challenges.

  • Families need information and support

    Education, prevention, and trusted resources can save lives and help families navigate difficult realities.

  • Creative expression creates connection

    Arts and arts education can give young people opportunities to explore who they are, express what they may not yet have words for, and build confidence, connection, and stronger mental well-being.

  • One conversation can change a life

    Earlier support, stronger community connections, and meaningful opportunities can create a different path forward.

  • Give Now

    Every contribution brings us one step closer to supporting young adults and their families.

Leo's Legacy

You can’t spell love without Leo

Leandro “Leo” De Niro Rodriguez was deeply loved. His life mattered, and his legacy is now our call to action.

This foundation exists in his name and in honor of every young person and family navigating substance use disorder, mental health struggles, grief, and hope.

We believe no family should face this crisis alone.

You Can't Spell Love Without Leo

You Can't Spell Love Without Leo

How we support young people and families

  • We support organizations doing meaningful work in their communities.

    LDR Helps by Funding Grassroots Organizations

  • We support organizations providing treatment and recovery efforts

    Healing requires care, connection, and long-term support.

  • We support organizations investing in education and prevention

    Earlier conversations and trusted resources can change the outcome.

  • We support organizations standing with families

    No one should feel alone while navigating loss, treatment, or recovery.

  • We support organizations creating opportunities through arts education

    Creative expression, exploration, and connection can help young people build confidence, discover purpose, and support long-term mental well-being.

Support Our Cause

A Better Future Is Possible

Every young person deserves support, hope, and the opportunity to build a healthy future. Every family deserves to know they are not alone.

Join us

3% Cover the Fee
  • Stay Connected

    Be part of our growing community. Follow us to learn, share, and stand with families nationwide. We stand together!

  • Speak Up

    Stay informed. Stay empowered. Join our newsletter for updates from our foundation, resources, and ways to protect the ones you love.

  • Learn More

    Read the latest news and updates about our organization and the fight against fentanyl on our news page.

One conversation can change a life

Earlier support, stronger community connections, and meaningful opportunities can create a different path forward.

Read The Latest News & Press