[1] Its programs include guest-chef dinners to scholarships for aspiring culinary students, educational conferences, and industry awards.

In the spirit of James Beard's legacy, the foundation creates programs that help educate people about American cuisine, and supports and promotes the chefs and other industry professionals.

At Julia Child's suggestion, Kump purchased Beard's New York brownstone townhouse at 167 West 12th Street in Greenwich Village and preserved it as a gathering place where the general public and press alike would be able to appreciate the talents of established and emerging chefs.

[5] As a result of the scandal and his indictment by the Attorney General's Office, the members of the board of the foundation were asked to resign in January 2005.

Sponsorships, donations, and event revenues also dropped after the scandal broke prompting the foundation to take out a $2 million mortgage on the Beard home, the only asset.

Founded during Susan Ungaro's tenure as president of the foundation, the organization hopes to continue attracting younger audiences through these events.

[16][17] The volunteer committee that presides over the awards distribution issued a criticism of the organization after being asked to conduct a recount of the 2020 voting when no black awardees were selected for the 23 categories.