Communities Thrive When People Invest in Them

As a philanthropic hub, the foundation serves people and organizations who want to make an investment in the county. Working in partnership with other foundations, community leaders, and donor investors, the foundation acts as a leader and convener in addressing community issues. Through research and public education, sustained involvement, creative partnerships, and strategic grantmaking, the foundation aims to strengthen the county's capacity to bring about a more vibrant, engaged, and meaningfully connected Santa Barbara County...for all.

The Santa Barbara Foundation specializes in helping donors and families design personalized giving strategies that meet their charitable goals. With a wide selection of giving options and deep community knowledge, the foundation provides the tools to make your philanthropy meaningful and enduring. Click here to learn more about starting a fund.

Since 1928, the Santa Barbara Foundation has provided funding, advice, and encouragement to those who are making a positive impact in the county. The generosity of many donors has made it possible for the foundation to be a strategic resource for nonprofits, to lead in time of crisis, and to support critical services to those most in need. You can be part of this good work by making a gift to the foundation. Click here to make a gift.

The Santa Barbara Foundation is proud to foster thoughtful philanthropy through collective giving, allowing individuals to realize their passions while making a difference in the community. The foundation is home to over 200 individual and agency funds as well as five collective giving groups who are an integral part of the foundation family. Click here to see the many diverse giving groups who demonstrate the power of collective giving.

In total, the Santa Barbara Foundation, in partnership with its family of donor investors, awarded over $17 million in grants in 2011. This included over $15 million for more than 1,700 grants to nonprofits and $1.8 million in student aid to nearly 700 young adults and their families. As the community foundation for the entire county, we fund a wide range of initiatives and projects, through competitive grant programs and the charitable interests of our donors. Click here to find out more about our competitive grant programs.

Whether you are looking to know more about the community, support issues you care about, or apply for funding, the Santa Barbara Foundation can help. Join us.