About Your Foundation

A History of Giving

Est. 1992

The Community Foundation for San Benito County was formed in 1992 by a dedicated group of people who were passionate about building a stronger community and enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families in San Benito County through the support of philanthropic activities.

In 2000, our Founding Benefactors pooled their resources to help launch the Community Foundation in our grant making work. That same year, we hired our first full-time executive director. Over the years, the board has increased in size, and we’ve added additional staff - all focused on helping local organizations build a more vibrant San Benito County. Since our inception, we have granted over $30 million to a variety of local causes and nonprofits. The community leaders that sit on our eight committees invite you to join them by giving your time, talent, or treasure.

Our Mission

A Lasting Legacy For Future Generations

We are dedicated to building a stronger community and enhancing the quality of life in San Benito County through the support of philanthropic activities.

“We admire community involvement, creativity, passion, courage, and the willingness to improve the quality of life in San Benito County.”

– Gary Byrne, President and CEO

Who We Are

We are one of many Community Foundations throughout the US that all share a common purpose: to serve as a bridge between donors and local nonprofit organizations.

As a leader in San Benito County, we support nonprofit and service organizations by providing resources for charitable giving, access to available funding, and workshops.

We provide an opportunity for charitable collaboration by convening diverse voices to address local issues and opportunities for donors, nonprofits, and residents.

Our long-term goal for donors and nonprofits is to continue building a permanent home for endowment funds, and establishing individual, family, business, community, and nonprofit funds.

How We Work

The Community Foundation for San Benito County is a tax-exempt public charity. To ensure that resources will be available for many years, local donors have established endowed funds that grow over time. These funds are overseen by a volunteer board of leading citizens who understand our community's needs. The income earned on these funds is available for grant making and assistance to develop and strengthen community organizations.

Our Objectives

We’re focused on three primary areas:

Providing donors with a way of giving that fulfills their financial and charitable interests
Building permanent funds to meet the broad charitable needs of the community
Maintaining needed nonprofit service delivery in the community