The Foundation’s Impact Grants Program is funded solely by donors who have contributed to the Foundation’s unrestricted endowments. Each year a specific focus is selected by the Board of Directors for the Impact grants program. The process is competitive and grants are awarded to qualified nonprofit organizations throughout San Diego County. Applications for Impact Grants will be solicited annually in the Fall.
Impact and innovation — In order to have the greatest possible impact with our grantmaking, we look for projects where a relatively small investment can make a significant difference. This is necessary, given the limited amount of discretionary funds available. It is also important to seek innovative programs that promise new approaches to existing problems. We have found in the past that a RSF Foundation grant may act as a catalyst, inspiring others to invest.
Gaps and practicality — We look for gaps where our resources can do the greatest good—programs or projects that deserve consideration but may not be getting it. We take a practical approach to narrowing those gaps with thoughtful grants that are relatively modest in size.
Flexibility and rigor — We have designed a simple application and review process. We use the San Diego Grantmakers Common Grant Application form. We carefully review proposals, to make informed decisions. The Grants & Projects Committee is comprised of community and Foundation Board members to ensure a proper evaluation is made of all grant requests.
The Rancho Santa Fe Foundation makes grants within and across these areas:
Arts & Culture — supporting appreciation of new and traditional forms of visual and performing arts through education and experience.
Education — supporting programs that enhance learning and impact knowledge, skills and attitudes.
Health & Human Services — improving the quality of life through preventive health care, overcoming barriers to physical and mental health care, providing for basic needs and social service programs, addressing the needs of youth at risk, seniors and people with disabilities, programs supporting people attempting to help themselves.
Community Enhancement — providing an enduring impact through the environmental and historical aspects of community life.
For more information about grants and programs, contact Debbie Anderson at (858) 756-0358 or debbie@rsffoundation.org.
