Put Your Generosity To Work

Give to your passions. Support effective nonprofits. Create lasting impact.

Our Community

Sharing stories and upcoming events that bring together people, ideas, and resources to inspire philanthropy and accomplish great things.

Featured story

Investing in Democracy

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Oct 28, 2024

New Solutions to Build Climate Resilience

We're the only Community Foundation in the country utilizing Impact investing to fund climate adaptation work.

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Oct 2, 2024

A Force for Good

Leola Lapides is our newest Honorary Trustee. Learn more about how she lives her life with purpose and in service to Santa Cruz County.
Walnut Avenue Family and Women’s Center

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Aug 27, 2024

Setting the Agenda for Women & Girls

An update on our Fund for Women & Girls

Flexible Tax-wise Giving

Start Your Own Fund

We can work with you to create a fund focused on supporting the local, national, and global causes closest to your heart.

Maximize Your Impact

Join the Giving Community

You can give any amount, at any time, to support organizations that impact the arts, education, the environment, human services, health and community development, women and girls, the LGBTQ+ community, as well as young children and youth in Santa Cruz County and beyond.

Get Started on Your Plans for Giving

Prepare Now to Give Later

Give to improve Santa Cruz County and beyond as part of your will or trust, with the confidence that Community Foundation Santa Cruz County will act as a faithful steward of your wishes — far into the future.

A Center for Giving

We have a long history of turning generosity into community wins.

OUR VALUES

Solutions, Trust, & Opportunity

We support effective programs and have earned the trust of Santa Cruz County residents. We advocate for a just, equitable, and inclusive community.

WHY WE EXIST

We Create Lasting Solutions

Founded in the wake of disaster in 1982, the Community Foundation was established by generous people who wanted a central organization to send donations and help with long-term recovery.

How We’ve Helped

$223 Million in Local Grants Since 1982

Four decades of inspired philanthropy has provided a steady source of funding for hundreds of local nonprofit, helping organizations build a county where everyone can thrive.

For Advisors and Nonprofits


Advisor Assistance

Serve Your Clients

Access free expertise. We can help you provide tailored giving options that satisfy your clients’ personal, financial, and charitable goals.

Supporting Nonprofits

Collaborate With Us

Let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your mission, invest your funds, find board members, increase awareness, get meeting space, and much more.

Join Our Giving Community

Contact our knowledgeable staff today to support the causes you care about.