Put Your Generosity To Work
Give to your passions. Support effective nonprofits. Create lasting impact.
Our Community
Sharing stories and upcoming events that bring together people, ideas, and resources to inspire philanthropy and accomplish great things.
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Feb 26, 2025
Funding Conservation On The Central Coast
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Feb 1, 2022
2024 Grants List
Flexible Tax-wise Giving
Start Your Own Fund
We can work with you to create a fund focused on supporting the local, national, and global causes closest to your heart.
Maximize Your Impact
Join the Giving Community
You can give any amount, at any time, to support organizations that impact the arts, education, the environment, human services, health and community development, women and girls, the LGBTQ+ community, as well as young children and youth in Santa Cruz County and beyond.
Get Started on Your Plans for Giving
Prepare Now to Give Later
Give to improve Santa Cruz County and beyond as part of your will or trust, with the confidence that Community Foundation Santa Cruz County will act as a faithful steward of your wishes — far into the future.
A Center for Giving
We have a long history of turning generosity into community wins.
OUR VALUES
Solutions, Trust, & Opportunity
We support effective programs and have earned the trust of Santa Cruz County residents. We advocate for a just, equitable, and inclusive community.
WHY WE EXIST
We Create Lasting Solutions
Founded in the wake of disaster in 1982, the Community Foundation was established by generous people who wanted a central organization to send donations and help with long-term recovery.
How We’ve Helped
$223 Million in Local Grants Since 1982
Four decades of inspired philanthropy has provided a steady
source of funding for hundreds of local nonprofit, helping
organizations build a county where everyone can thrive.
For Advisors and Nonprofits
Advisor Assistance
Serve Your Clients
Access free expertise. We can help you provide tailored giving options that satisfy your clients’ personal, financial, and charitable goals.
Supporting Nonprofits
Collaborate With Us
Let’s talk about how we can help you achieve your mission, invest your funds, find board members, increase awareness, get meeting space, and much more.
Join Our Giving Community
Contact our knowledgeable staff today to support the causes you care about.