Hidden Heritage Foundation
Illuminating the Stories History Forgot.
A Virginia 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Nonprofit.
A Commonwealth of Virginia nonprofit dedicated to historical research, documentary filmmaking, and educational storytelling.
Our Mission
History Worth Telling
Hidden Heritage Foundation champions the discovery and presentation of overlooked American history. Through documentary film, educational programming, and historical research, the Foundation works to bring underrepresented stories to audiences who might never encounter them otherwise.
Founded by Roland L. Waddell, the Foundation reflects a lifelong commitment to the belief that history belongs to everyone — and that the stories most often overlooked are frequently the ones most worth telling.
The Foundation's work spans diverse communities and historical periods, with a particular focus on stories that connect audiences across generations through shared understanding, education, and compelling visual storytelling.
Our Work
From Research to the Screen
Historical Research
Identifying and documenting overlooked chapters of American history through rigorous research, archival exploration, and collaboration with historians and subject-matter experts.
Documentary Filmmaking
Developing and producing documentary films that bring historical stories to life with cinematic craft, authentic voices, and the depth these subjects deserve.
Educational Storytelling
Creating educational content and programming that connects students, educators, and communities with historical narratives that expand understanding and inspire curiosity.
Philanthropy & Fiscal Sponsorship
Support the Mission
Every generation deserves access to the stories that shaped our nation. Through charitable contributions, donor-advised fund grants, and fiscal sponsorship partnerships, Hidden Heritage Foundation helps transform overlooked American history into compelling documentary films and educational experiences.
Roland Waddell manages Hidden Heritage Foundation, a Commonwealth of Virginia nonprofit organization recognized as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation supports historical research, documentary filmmaking, and educational storytelling that illuminate overlooked chapters of American history.
Charitable Contributions
Support the Foundation's mission through charitable contributions that help fund qualifying documentary films, historical research, preservation, and educational programming.
Donor-Advised Funds
Supporters with Donor-Advised Funds may recommend grants to Hidden Heritage Foundation through their sponsoring organizations. Eligible grants help advance the Foundation's charitable mission and qualifying projects.
Fiscal Sponsorship
Hidden Heritage Foundation offers fiscal sponsorship consideration for independent documentary and historical storytelling projects aligned with its charitable and educational mission. Sponsorship is subject to project review, formal agreements, and appropriate nonprofit oversight.
Featured Initiative
Valor at New Market Heights
A documentary in development chronicling the extraordinary courage of United States Colored Troops during the American Civil War — a pivotal and often overlooked chapter of American military history. Valor at New Market Heights is a qualifying project of Hidden Heritage Foundation.
Learn More at hiddenheritagefoundation.org"Philanthropy helps turn overlooked history into enduring stories that educate, inspire, and connect generations."
Connect
Partner With the Foundation.
Hidden Heritage Foundation welcomes conversations with historians, filmmakers, educators, institutions, and philanthropists who share a commitment to preserving and presenting overlooked American history.