Leadership

The recognition that meaningful change comes from committed leadership lies at the heart of the Foundation’s work.

We believe that individuals and organizations that are passionate, focused and innovative hold the greatest potential to make a difference in the world around them.

We invest in leaders who operate with strategic vision, evaluate their work and hold themselves accountable to their constituents.

Sand Hill Foundation  3000 Sand Hill Road, 1-120  Menlo Park, CA 94025
Geographic Focus Area

The Sand Hill Foundation welcomes funding proposals from nonprofit organizations serving the needs of individuals and families in San Mateo and northern Santa Clara counties in California. 

Alleviating Poverty by Strengthening Families

We are interested in organizations, programs and services that provide opportunities for low-income families and youth who are taking steps to improve their lives.  We are similarly interested in funding programs and services where a timely, thoughtful investment can change the course of an individual's or a family's future.  We generally do not fund early childhood education, juvenile justice programs, or those focused on alleviation of drug and alcohol addiction.  Some examples of the types of programs and services the Foundation has supported in this area include:

  • Services that support safe, secure and stable families (including family counseling, vocational training and asset-building programs).
  • Programs that expand access to community health care services (including preventative education and direct services).
  • Mental health services for youth.
  • Innovative after-school enrichment and college preparatory programs (see New Initiative).
  • Scholarships, fellowships and internships that expand an individual's educational and job options.

Preserving and Protecting the Environment

The Sand Hill Foundation is dedicated to preserving and protecting the glorious natural environment we all share.  The Foundation has supported projects in open space preservation, environmental education and related stewardship efforts for many years.  The foundation welcomes applications for funding related to environmental education programs that collaborate with schools in San Mateo and northern Santa Clara County.  We are particularly   interested in:

  • Programs or partnerships that offer a sustained, in-depth continuum of learning that will lead to a lifetime of environmental stewardship.
  • Science-based learning opportunities that use environmental experiences or principles to contribute to the CA State teaching standards requirements.
  • Opportunities for low-income students to learn and live outdoors.

Capital Needs

The Sand Hill Foundation is pleased to make capital grants under $35,000 for specific, urgent needs that will enable an organization to continue to deliver crucial services to the community.  Organizations that fit any of the Foundation's focus areas are eligible for this kind of grant and, with prior verbal approval from the foundation, may submit a second request for capital needs even if currently the recipient of another Sand Hill Foundation grant.  Examples of past grants include a new refrigerator for a food bank, a youth group van and furniture for a low-income childcare center.
The photo above features youth at Hidden Villa summer camp.