This month, the San Francisco Foundation (SFF) proudly recognizes Arab American Heritage Month. We celebrate the rich history, influence, and contributions of Arab Americans to our region and our country. This recognition also serves to build bridges of understanding between Arab American communities and the diverse tapestry of cultures within the Bay Area. SFF’s North Star of fostering racial equity and economic inclusion reflects our commitment to ensuring the well-being of all Bay Area communities. We’d like to introduce you to some outstanding organizations led by and for Arab Americans. A ..read more

Partnership for the Bay’s Future (PBF) is an SFF initiative to advance housing solutions. PBF works to produce, preserve, and protect affordable homes in the Bay Area, and to ensure our region remains a diverse place where all people are welcome and can thrive. In a groundbreaking effort to tackle the affordable housing crisis, the City of Antioch, through the support of the Partnership for the Bay’s Future (PBF) Policy Grants, has embarked on a journey that may well serve as a beacon for cities nationwide. The recently published report, “Community-Driven Housing Solutions in Antioch,” details ..read more

While many people view their philanthropy as a means to directly address social issues and their investments purely for financial growth, the truth is that all financial decisions are opportunities to reflect one’s personal values. Ultimately, aligning philanthropy and investment decisions presents a strategic opportunity to positively reshape the economy and support a more inclusive and prosperous society. By harnessing the full force of your financial resources to drive toward a more equitable future, you can leave a meaningful legacy of impact, lead by example, and inspire others to follow ..read more

February 9, 2024 San Francisco Business Times: Presenting the San Francisco Business Times’ 2024 Power 100 Power comes in all shapes and sizes. Read more ..read more

January 30, 2024 Inside Philanthropy: From Anti-Apartheid to Land Back, Deborah Santana Reflects on Years of Social Justice Giving You might know Deborah Santana as the former wife of legendary musician Carlos Santana; the two were married from the early 1970s until 2007 and managed his band together for years. But that connection offers only a glimpse into the life of Deborah Santana, a dynamo in her own right. Read more ..read more

In recognition of Women’s History Month, the San Francisco Foundation is proud to honor the leadership of women heading organizations tackling crucial issues impacting our region, including affordable housing, environmental justice, criminal justice, and the role of art in advancing community change. Through their dedication and unwavering commitment, these women, along with the organizations they lead, are shaping a Bay Area that is more liberatory, compassionate, and joyful for all.  By highlighting their contributions, we celebrate the power of women to create a more just and equitable ..read more

Contact: Ling Woo Liu, lliu[at]sff.org SAN FRANCISCO – The San Francisco Foundation announces today a new scholarship program for San Francisco State University (SF State) students who identify as Black, and who demonstrate financial need. The San Francisco Foundation Black Excellence Scholarship for SF State will offer $2,500 scholarships to 35 SF State students each year. “SF State students are a vibrant part of the Bay Area community,” said Fred Blackwell, CEO of the San Francisco Foundation. “By creating this scholarship program, we are helping to ensure that all SF State students have a f ..read more

Contact: Ling Woo Liu, lliu[at]sff.org SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The San Francisco Foundation (SFF) has hired Karely Ordaz Salto as Director, Department of the CEO. Karely brings a breadth of experience and deep Bay Area connections to this newly created role, which will expand SFF’s presence in Bay Area communities and work closely with CEO Fred Blackwell. “I’m excited to be working closely with Karely to realize our vision for a Bay Area where everyone thrives, regardless of race or zip code,” says CEO Fred Blackwell. “She understands the issues that are important to our communities and has experi ..read more

At the San Francisco Foundation, we look forward to Black History Month to celebrate both the resilience and the joy that have been defining characteristics of the Black experience in the U.S. On February 1, the Black @ SFF employee affinity group kicked off Black History Month with a hearty potluck feast that included foods that reflected our diverse cultures, including escovitch fish, red beans and rice, and mac and cheese. SFF staff also prepared this Black History Month Give Guide, which highlights the work of Black-led organizations that are working on the most vexing issues of our time w ..read more

It’s our Super Bowl Showdown – Philanthropy Edition! While the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs are facing off in a re-match game this Sunday, San Francisco Foundation and the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation (GKCCF) are taking this moment to cheer on all of the amazing generosity and giving happening in both of our regions. Everyone wins when you give back to your local community. Watch video ..read more