The Generosity Forum 2026

Please join us for The Generosity Forum, a series of engaging conversations hosted at the Community Foundation designed to help you give with confidence and purpose. Each session offers practical strategies, heartfelt insights, and expert guidance on ways to make a lasting impact in Santa Cruz County while aligning your giving with your values and financial goals.

These conversations will offer fresh ideas and opportunities to connect with others who care about our community and discover how Community Foundation Santa Cruz County can help you turn your generosity into meaningful change.

All events will be held at the Community Foundation building at 7807 Soquel Drive in Aptos.

We hope to see you there!

Meet Your Community Foundation: Tools, Guidance, and Opportunities to Create Local Impact

• March 11, 2026, 10:00 - 11:30 am
• Featuring: Community Foundation CEO Susan True, Community Foundation Donor Services Director Hilary Bryant, and Community Foundation Chief Philanthropy Officer Kea Gorden

Learn how the Community Foundation partners with donors to turn generosity into meaningful local impact through personalized philanthropic advising, flexible giving tools, and leadership on the issues shaping Santa Cruz County.

When It’s Time to Let Go — Smart Exit Strategies for Appreciated Real Estate

• April 8, 2026, 10:00-11:30 am
• Featuring: Dave Dawson, Realtor at Bailey Properties, and Community Foundation CEO Susan True

In this session, we will share real examples of what today’s property owners are facing when they consider selling or stepping back from active management. Community Foundation staff will then discuss practical strategies—such as charitable remainder trusts, donor-advised funds, and even partial or deferred gifts—that can ease the tax burden, generate lifetime income, and support the causes you care about.

Save the Dates for Future Events

• May 13th- Income for Life: Charitable Trusts and Gift Annuities
• June 3rd- Giving to Meet Local Needs: Where Your Generosity Can Power Community Change
• August 5th- Estate Planning for Community Impact: The Memorandum of Charitable Intent
• September 9th- Tax-Smart Giving Through Donor Advised Funds
• October 1st- The Charitable Power of Your IRA: Smarter Giving for Retirement Assets