Read about how we’ve met challenges throughout the years by expanding our commitment to serving our community.
Strong Foundations
In the aftermath of World War II, a group of public servants, philanthropists and business leaders unveiled a daring idea to create a Bay Area where everyone could thrive.
“There’s been an evolution of calculating what is real risk, what is courage, what is vision, and what is a willingness to stand with people when you know the worst of systemic racism and exploitation and oppression are being unveiled.”
Tessa Rouverol Callejo, former SFF Power Pathway senior program officer
Our Early Eras
Much of the growing pains, patience and faith that characterized SFF’s early years fell on the shoulders of the foundation’s first director, John R. May.
The Unique Challenge of the Buck Trust
In the 1970s and 1980s, the curious case of the Buck Trust put SFF’s ideology of equity and inclusion to the test.
Identifying Our North Star
SFF CEO Fred Blackwell’s awareness of structural inequity began when he was a child riding his bicycle around Oakland.
A Return on Investment
By investing in emergency grantmaking and remaining committed to growing the endowment, SFF is investing in long-term work that will bring about an equitable Bay Area.
Support the Bay Area Leads Fund
To help inform public opinion and advocate for systemic change across the Bay Area.
See All Anniversary Stories
Learn more about San Francisco Foundation’s history and programs.