California Community Foundation

Overview

The California Community Foundation (CCF) is a philanthropic organization based in Los Angeles, California. It ranks among the top 100 foundations in the U.S. by asset size and total giving, making it a prominent figure in community-based philanthropy[1]. Founded in 1915 by Joseph Sartori, CCF has been dedicated to strengthening communities across Los Angeles County through strategic philanthropy and civic engagement[1].

Mission and Objectives

CCF's mission is to lead positive systemic change that strengthens Los Angeles communities. It aims to create a future where all Angelenos have the opportunity to contribute to the productivity, health, and well-being of the region[2]. The organization fulfills its mission through fundraising, charitable fund management, grantmaking, and collaborative efforts with donors, financial advisors, local nonprofits, and foundation partners[1].

Program Areas

CCF focuses its efforts across several key program areas:

• Arts: The Arts Program aims to enhance the cultural vitality of L.A. County by supporting small and mid-size arts and cultural organizations, increasing affordable arts opportunities for underserved communities, and promoting diverse participation in the arts[1].
• Education: The Education Program is dedicated to improving school readiness and K-5 student performance in reading and math, fostering partnerships among schools, districts, teachers, and parents[1].
• Health Care: This program seeks to improve access to quality, affordable healthcare for low-income adults and children, with a focus on community clinics and uninsured individuals[1].
• Housing and Neighborhoods: CCF works to increase access to affordable housing and improve underserved neighborhoods through multiservice, geographically focused initiatives. The Community Foundation Land Trust ensures that acquired properties remain affordable for decades[1].

Additionally, CCF provides grants for adults with developmental disabilities, aging adults, animal welfare, disaster relief, and transitional-age foster youth. Donor-advised grants enable support for worthy causes worldwide[1].

Civic Engagement

CCF believes in the power of collective engagement and social change. It invests in civic engagement activities, including:

• Immigrant Integration: Efforts to integrate newcomers into the social, civic, and economic fabric of L.A. County through culturally competent local nonprofits[1].
• Los Angeles Citizenship Collaboration: Initiatives to encourage and assist eligible Legal Permanent Residents in becoming U.S. citizens, partnering with nonprofit, public, and private sectors[1].
• Los Angeles Preschool Advocacy Initiative: A multi-year effort to increase access to quality early care and education for underserved communities, in collaboration with other foundations[1].

Leadership and Governance

CCF is led by Antonia Hernández, who serves as President & CEO. The Board of Directors is chaired by Hon. Gloria Molina. The foundation's board includes diverse leaders from various sectors, ensuring inclusive governance practices[3].

Financial Overview

As of 2020, CCF had assets totaling approximately $1.9 billion[1]. It has earned a 4/4 Star rating from Charity Navigator, reflecting its strong financial health and commitment to transparency[4].

Impact and Initiatives

In 2012, CCF launched BLOOM (Building a Lifetime of Options and Opportunities for Men), a program aimed at supporting young Black men at risk of involvement in the juvenile justice system. The program has been recognized nationally and replicated as a model[2]. CCF is also actively addressing the climate crisis and advocating for equitable access to education and healthcare across Los Angeles[2].