Past & Present
Community Foundation Initiatives
For more than three decades, the Community Foundation for San Benito County has worked alongside donors, nonprofits, and community members to address local needs and create lasting impact.
Our initiatives reflect the evolving priorities of our community, supporting education, strengthening nonprofits, and investing in the people and ideas that help San Benito County thrive. Together, these efforts tell the story of where we’ve been, what we’re building now, and the future we’re shaping together.
Present Initiatives
Seniors Council
Through a dynamic partnership, the Community Foundation and the Seniors Council are advancing the Master Plan for Aging (MPA) in San Benito County via five dedicated cross-sector workgroups focused on housing, health, equity, caregiving, and affordability. This collaboration has successfully launched vital community resources, including the San Benito County Seniors Connect Newsletter and the SBCVolunteers.org platform, which centralize communication and volunteer engagement. By coordinating efforts across county departments and nonprofits, the partnership is actively expanding senior-friendly housing resources, wellness programs, and digital literacy to ensure a resilient, connected, and supportive environment for older adults.
San Benito Leadership Institute
The San Benito Leadership Institute (SBLI) is a transformative nine-month program of the Community Foundation of San Benito County that runs from September to May and is designed to equip emerging and established leaders with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to make a meaningful impact in San Benito County. Participants attend nine full-day sessions, each centered around a unique theme blending equity principles with leadership development and community engagement.
Past Initiatives
BenitoLink
Members of the community cited the lack of local news and information as a major concern. With the help of the Community Foundation for San Benito County, private donors and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and Vision San Benito, a small group developed BenitoLink, an on-line web portal created by San Benito residents for San Benito residents. BenitoLink is designed to include local news, events, sports, opinions and community discussion forums.
12 Days of Giving
Every year, this community effort brings together key nonprofits that provide vital services to help community members who are most in need. In 2025, the five participating nonprofits were: CASA of San Benito County, Community Food Bank of San Benito County, Emmaus House, Sun Street Centers, and the YMCA of San Benito County. Originally an initiative driven by the Community Foundation for San Benito County, 12 Days of Giving is now led by United for San Benito.
A Legacy of Local Impact
Each initiative, both past and present, represents a shared commitment to strengthening San Benito County. By listening to our community and responding with intention, we continue to build a more connected, resilient, and thriving region.