San Antonio Area Foundation

The San Antonio Area Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1964 as a community foundation, being the first of its kind in Texas. It operates as a 501(c)(3) entity dedicated to managing and administering charitable funds for individuals and organizations in San Antonio and South Central Texas. The foundation's mission focuses on helping donors achieve their charitable goals, contributing to the long-term betterment of the local community.

Mission and Operation

The foundation's primary goal is to support the community by facilitating charitable giving in line with donors' intentions. This is reflected in its grant-making processes, which include honoring donor recommendations from Donor Advised Trusts and Funds throughout the year. Additionally, it awards Community and Research Grants through a competitive proposal process from permanent trusts and funds.

Impact and Financials

Since its inception, the San Antonio Area Foundation has distributed over $809 million to the San Antonio community. It manages more than 500 charitable funds and has assets valued at approximately $1.1 billion. The foundation supports various community nonprofits, enhancing the lives of thousands of individuals in the San Antonio region. It also provides scholarships and offers capacity-building services to strengthen local organizations.

Community Engagement

One of its notable projects is NOWcastSA, a grassroots initiative supported by the Knight Foundation. This project involves empowering neighborhoods through training in community information exchange and online broadcasting. In 2007, the foundation participated in establishing funds for the Texas Resources for Iraq-Afghanistan Deployment (TRIAD) Fund, which collectively awarded significant support to agencies serving families affected by military deployments.

Governance and Ratings

The San Antonio Area Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors composed of community volunteers who oversee its operations. The board conducts regular assessments and maintains a commitment to diversity and ethical governance practices. The organization has received high ratings from Charity Navigator for its transparency and operational efficiency.

Achievements and Recognition

Throughout its history, the San Antonio Area Foundation has supported key local institutions such as the San Antonio Botanical Garden, YMCA of Greater San Antonio, and the Witte Museum. Its contributions have been recognized through various grants and collaborations, solidifying its role as a leading philanthropic partner in the region.