Put Your Generosity To Work
Give to your passions. Support effective nonprofits. Create lasting impact.
Our Community
At the Community Foundation, we bring together people, ideas, and resources to inspire philanthropy and accomplish great things.
Read recent stories about the impact we are having together.
story
Mar 25, 2026
Announcing the 2026-2027 Rydell Fellows
article
Dec 9, 2025
The Generosity Forum 2026
story
Dec 5, 2025
Rooted in Place, Giving Back in Kind
HERE FOR GOOD
Our Purpose
Our vision is to make Santa Cruz County thrive for all who call it home, now and in the future. Our mission is to bring together people, ideas, and resources to inspire philanthropy and accomplish great things.
Get to know us and how we can help you invest in what you love.
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
$279 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.
Join Our Giving Community
Contact our knowledgeable staff today to support the causes you care about.