ABOUT THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Silicon Valley Community Foundation is a leading voice and catalyst
for innovative solutions to the region's most challenging problems.
Our mission, vision and values reflect our commitment to serving
the vibrant and
diverse community that makes up San Mateo
and Santa Clara Counties.
The community foundation was created in 2006 through the landmark merger
of Peninsula Community Foundation and Community Foundation Silicon Valley, and launched in January 2007.
Serving all of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties, Silicon Valley Community
Foundation is a partner and resource to organizations improving the quality of life in our region,
and to those who want to give back locally, nationally and internationally. Thousands of individuals,
families, corporations, nonprofit and government organizations, and community leaders work with us to
address critical needs and make an impact through effective programs and inspired philanthropy.
Over the five decades that Peninsula Community
Foundation and Community Foundation Silicon Valley served
this region, both parent foundations helped to establish a tradition of generosity that has led many
people to invest their time and philanthropic dollars to support the common good. Understanding that
community issues do not stop at the county line and that greater social impact could be realized by
acting regionally, the Boards of Directors of PCF and CFSV approved a memorandum
of understanding (PDF 342k) on July 12, 2006, to form a united foundation. The result
is the fourth largest community foundation in the nation with $1.5 billion in assets and more
than 1,500 philanthropic funds.
Silicon Valley Community Foundation brings together the combined expertise and
collective voice of its parent foundations with the goal of engaging others in smart solutions to meet
pressing needs. We undertake this work led by a knowledgeable board of
directors of local leaders and an expert staff headed by
Emmett D. Carson, Ph.D., CEO and president.
Whether you are looking for ways to learn about our community, support the issues
that matter most to you, or apply for funding, Silicon Valley Community Foundation can help.
Contact us to learn more.
