Livingston Memorial Foundation

The Livingston Memorial Foundation is a private nonprofit organization based in Westlake Village, California, founded in 1974. The foundation was established in honor of Dr. William R. Livingston and is driven by the mission to promote health and support medical services in Ventura County.

History

The foundation was created following the death of Ruth Daily Livingston, who was dedicated to ensuring that her estate would facilitate health care initiatives. Under her will, following the passing of her sisters, the remainder of her estate was to be used to establish a hospital near Saticoy named after her late husband. However, the consensus was that a hospital was not in the best interest of the community. Consequently, the decision was made to use the funds for the creation of the Livingston Memorial Foundation instead[1].

The foundation received its Articles of Incorporation on May 6, 1974, and was funded by a court order on January 23, 1976, which specified that its assets be utilized for promoting health in Ventura County[1].

Board of Directors

The initial Board of Directors comprised individuals such as Dr. Charles M. Hair, W. Cloyce Huff, M.D., and Walter W. Hoffman. Over the years, the board has evolved, and as of March 2024, it includes Laura K. McAvoy, Esq. as Chair, along with Kathleen F. Deutschman, Dr. Benjamin Pecht, Dr. John R. Walters, and Jane Donlon Waters, a great-granddaughter of Dr. Livingston[1].

Activities and Grantmaking

The Livingston Memorial Foundation is primarily engaged in grantmaking to support medical and health-related services in the community. The foundation operates one grant cycle per year, granting financial support to various organizations. In 2024, it awarded $489,280 to fifteen agencies, reinforcing its commitment to fulfilling the charitable intentions of Ruth Daily Livingston[2][4].

The foundation also collaborates with the Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association (LMVNA), which provides comprehensive home health care services to Ventura County residents, regardless of their ability to pay. Although LMVNA operates as a separate entity, it benefits from the ongoing support of the Livingston Memorial Foundation[1].

Financial Overview

According to the most recent financial data, the Livingston Memorial Foundation's revenue for 2024 was reported at approximately $530,000, with total expenses around $757,000. The foundation maintains total assets of about $10 million, demonstrating its financial stability and capacity to continue funding health-related initiatives in the community[5].

Conclusion

The Livingston Memorial Foundation is a vital contributor to health care services in Ventura County, reflecting a legacy of community service and commitment to public health in memory of Dr. William R. Livingston. Through its grantmaking efforts, the foundation aims to improve health outcomes and support various medical organizations and initiatives within the region.