Every community is strengthened by the people who choose to invest their time, resources, and energy into the places they call home. In our Why I Give series, we highlight the stories behind philanthropy, showing that generosity is not only about financial support, but about relationships, hope, diligence and a shared belief in what our communities can become.
This month, we sat down with Gene and Suzanne Valla, longtime philanthropists and Sonoma County residents whose approach to giving is rooted in listening, investigation, communication and a deep commitment to helping organizations create lasting impact.
Tell us a little about yourselves and your connection to Sonoma County.
Suzanne:
July 1st of this year marked the 45th anniversary of when we purchased our home in Dry Creek Valley. At the time, we were both working and had young children, so our visits were mostly short weekend trips. Sonoma County slowly became home, not just a place we visited, but a community we wanted to be part of.
Gene:
My philanthropic journey began in1987 when I was invited to join the board of the Louis R. Lurie Foundation. The next twenty-seven years was an experience during which I learned considerable about thoughtful giving and what it means to truly understand the organizations you support. When my wife, Suzanne, and I began looking more deeply at Sonoma County, we wanted to bring that same approach here: building relationships, visiting organizations, meeting the people doing the work, and understanding the impact they were creating.
What shaped the way you think about philanthropy and giving back?
Gene:
One of the biggest lessons I learned is that philanthropy is about much more than providing financial resources. It is about engaging with the leadership of an organization to comprehend the mission and programs the organization carries out and the beneficiaries of such work.
Suzanne:
At one TLC event in Sebastopol, we heard a young man perform music for the community. Later, we learned that he had gone through their program himself. Seeing someone who had benefited from a program grow, gain confidence, and come back to share his talents was incredibly powerful.
Those moments show you the difference these organizations make.
How has your approach to giving evolved over time?
Gene:
Over the years, we have learned that strong relationships matter. We want to know the organization’s leadership, mission and objectives. We need to understand their work and build a partnership with them over time.
Today, we work with several organizations in Sonoma County that we have built relationships with for many years as well as recently. We focus on organizations where we believe there is strong leadership, meaningful impact, and a commitment to collaboration.
What does collaboration mean to you?
Gene:
One mantra for me is “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”
Each organization is important. However, their impact can be greater by collaboration with other organizations with the same or similar missions and objectives.
There are so many opportunities for organizations to leverage resources together. Maybe it is shared purchasing, shared services, or working together to solve common challenges.
What gives you hope when you think about Sonoma County’s future?
Gene:
What gives me hope is seeing people come together. That the general public will become more aware of the many organizations with extraordinary leadership, excellent programs and demonstrable results.
At community gatherings, I’ve seen people from different backgrounds celebrating each other, sharing their experiences, and recognizing that we are all part of the same community.
Another mantra that is most applicable: “Building bridges not silos.”
We all know that housing is also a major priority. Fortunately, we have organizations that do research, advocacy and considerable collaboration. Their objective is more housing opportunities for everyone, teachers, workers, families, and people who want to continue calling Sonoma County home.
Suzanne:
I love seeing the different parts of our community come together. I love farmers markets, community events, and seeing people share their talents and traditions. There is so much possibility here when people are willing to listen to each other and build together.
Why did you choose to partner with Sonoma Community Foundation?
Gene:
Sonoma Community Foundation was our initial contact in determining where we could focus our time, energy and resources in Sonoma County. It began over coffee in 2014.
That introduction led us to a couple of organizations. Our engagement with those organizations connected us to other organizations. By way of recent meetings and discussions we have been introduced to additional amazing organizations. It is so exciting.
The Foundation has helped us learn about resources they make available to Sonoma County organizations. Further the Foundation is a great “sounding board” when we have an idea or suggestion to enhance collaboration, communication and common needs.
It truly serves as a hub, bringing donors and nonprofits together.
What would you say to someone who is thinking about getting involved in their community?
Gene:
You have much to offer to enhance the livelihood of our county.
People often think they don’t have enough resources, but everyone has something valuable to offer: Their mind and skills. Maybe you are an accountant, a lawyer, a marketing specialist, a contractor, a teacher, real estate broker, etc. Your skills, your time, your unique energy can be incredibly meaningful to organizations doing important work.
And the reward is tremendous. You learn so much, meet incredible people, and become part of something impactful.
When you imagine a thriving Sonoma County, what do you see?
Gene:
People respecting and appreciating each other and the environment we occupy. I visualize everyone having a home. I see more inclusivity, energy, empathy, engagement, enjoyment and appreciation for everyone residing here.
Suzanne:
I see people sharing possibilities. I see laughter. I see community gatherings, and young people finding opportunities to grow.
Sonoma County is special because of the people who care for it.
Finish this sentence: “I give because…”
Gene:
“I believe the impact of my time, thoughtfulness, caring and dedication will improve the lives of others who will want to do the same.”
Suzanne:
“This is my community now. I love my community. I love all the different faces, the smiles, and the kids.”
Finish this sentence: “Sonoma County is…”
Gene and Suzanne:
“a wonderful place with folks working very hard to make life better for everyone.”
If someone reads your story, what do you hope they take away?
Gene:
We are learning something new all the time. Every conversation, every observation, every experience, every site visit, every partnership brings something new to our awareness.
The more we learn from each other and work together, the stronger our community becomes.
Together, we give.
