Abdi Soltani
SFF Trustee, and Executive Director, ACLU of Northern California
Why do you do what you do?
I started organizing on civil rights issues in the Bay Area when I was a student in the early 90s and full time as an organizer starting in 1995. For 25 years, I have seen the foundation be steadfast and bold in its support of social justice in the Bay Area.
What drew you to serving on the board?
When I was asked to join the board, it only made sense to give back to an organization that has given so much to make the Bay Area the place that it is.
How would you describe your role as a board member?
A community foundation is a place of trust and a place for impact. Similarly, my responsibility as a trustee of the foundation is twofold. First, it is fiduciary, ensuring that its governance, finances and operations meet the high ethical standards deserving of the communities and donors who support the foundation. Second, it is strategic, helping the staff develop the goals and the approaches that will help us achieve our mission of racial and economic equity in this region we call home.