Connecting for Good

Creating Healthy, Safe, Vibrant Communities

When reflecting on the work of the Community Foundation for Monterey County in 2021, a continuing theme emerged: the power of connection. In this report you’ll see how the impact of the CFMC extends throughout Monterey County, connecting people, resources and organizations in many ways.

You’ll read how the foundation connects donors with important causes. Thanks to their support, the CFMC deployed a record $36 million in grants to nonprofit organizations working throughout Monterey County and beyond. A primary focus was on supporting agencies helping our communities recover from the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

You’ll learn how the CFMC’s leadership of the COVID-19 Collaborative and management of the VIDA Community Health Worker program helped people in Monterey County access testing, vaccines and sources of support.

You'll see how Monterey County Gives! offers donors a way to match their giving to their interests and connects local nonprofits with new supporters. The program, a partnership of the CFMC, the Monterey County Weekly and the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, eclipsed previous records in money raised.

Additionally, regional affiliate and special purpose funds strengthen and connect communities in defined geographical areas, including Northern and Southern Monterey County, Big Sur and Carmel Valley, by making grants to benefit their communities. Beyond grantmaking, you’ll see how the Center for Nonprofit Excellence links nonprofits with training, resources and professional development through online workshops and leadership programs.

You’ll read how the CFMC’s Community Impact Investment program connects small businesses and entrepreneurs with loans and training that they might not otherwise receive. The CFMC also partners with generous individuals, families and businesses to provide $1.5 million in scholarships to give local students opportunities to pursue their academic goals.

Lastly, you’ll learn how the CFMC offers donors ways to make a lasting impact through charitable gift planning. Whether you are someone who wants to make a difference through your giving, or part of a nonprofit organization working to improve the quality of life in our region, the Community Foundation is here to connect you with the resources you need to help strengthen communities throughout Monterey County.

THE IMPACT OF THE CFMC EXTENDS THROUGHOUT MONTEREY COUNTY.