The Julia L. Grant Fund for Basic Human Needs program addresses the pressing challenge of meeting the basic needs of individuals and families in Sonoma County.
This year, the Basic Human Needs program supported 50 organizations with over $1.3 million in grants, supporting a critical safety net of organizations throughout Sonoma County. These funds will help strengthen the support network for individuals and families in our community, ensuring that critical resources remain accessible to those who need them most. The program was expanded in the following ways:
Community-Driven Insights: CFSC hosted a discussion with local Community Health Workers (CHW) and Promotores who work directly with individuals and families. Their insights, along with input from other community partners, helped shape our grantmaking priorities.
Increased Funding and Reach: Thanks to a generous anonymous donation for a third year in a row, we increased both the median grant amount from $20,000 to $30,000, and expanded support from 44 to 50 organizations.
Stable housing and reliable food access are fundamental to community well-being. Nonprofits in Sonoma County need our support to continue to meet these needs amid a rapidly changing funding and policy landscape. By investing in nonprofits that deliver these essential services, we aim to bolster resilience and improve the quality of life across Sonoma County. We are grateful for the incredible work of our nonprofit partners and look forward to seeing the impact of these grants in strengthening our community!
Grants were made to the following organizations:
We are thrilled to announce that Angela Ryan has joined Community Foundation Sonoma County as the Executive Director of the Catalyst Fund. Angela brings a deep understanding of Sonoma Valley’s unique challenges and opportunities, having recently served as the Executive Director of the Sonoma Valley Education Foundation. In this newly created…
Community Foundation Sonoma County Announces the Launch of the Resilient Organizations Program: New Training Initiative to Bolster Health & Human Service Nonprofits in Sonoma County Santa Rosa, CA — Community Foundation Sonoma County (CFSC) is thrilled to announce the launch of its new Resilient Organizations Program, a training initiative…
We are thrilled to share that Deirdre Holbrook will be joining Community Foundation Sonoma County as our new Vice President for Philanthropic Advancement, starting on July 30th. With over 15 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Deirdre brings a wealth of knowledge and a strong connection to our community. Her…
Starting this week, two new wildfire response vehicles will be servicing the areas of Santa Rosa, thanks to the hard work of the Santa Rosa Fire Foundation and a Resilience Fund grant from Community Foundation Sonoma County! These wildfire response vehicles will serve two crucial roles for the Santa Rosa…
The Philanthropic Planning Team plays a pivotal role in guiding donors to achieve their charitable goals and maximize the impact of their philanthropy. This team works closely with individuals, families, and businesses to understand their values and aspirations and to help them create personalized giving plans. By offering expert advice…
It is with great appreciation and some sadness that we share with you that after 10 years of dedicated service to our organization, Kristin Nelson will leave Community Foundation Sonoma County in July. While we bid farewell to Kristin, who has been an integral part of our team, we are…
On Wednesday, May 29th, Community Foundation Sonoma County, First Five Sonoma County, and the Sonoma County Imagination Library Advisory Board held a press conference to announce the launch of the Sonoma County Imagination Library. CFSC CEO & President Óscar Chávez spoke at the event, along with Angie Dillon Shore, Executive…
A year ago, I walked through the doors of a very familiar place—a place that has long felt like home to me— the offices of Community Foundation Sonoma County in Santa Rosa. During my inaugural week as President & CEO, I was frequently asked about my vision for the…
The Sonoma County Vintners Foundation’s signature fundraising event, the Sonoma County Wine Auction, has raised tens of millions of dollars for local causes, helping to address Sonoma County’s most pressing needs and fostering both immediate and long-term change. The Vintners Foundation cultivates a vibrant Sonoma County through charitable giving focused…
We\'re thrilled to announce that, after an extensive search, Pamela Harris has joined Community Foundation Sonoma County as our Chief Financial Officer. Pamela brings with her a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to our mission. Pamela has devoted her career providing financial management and operational services to nonprofit…
