Absolutely not! Anyone who wants to be part of our collective philanthropy is welcome. You can join online today - no invitation required.

There’s no required time commitment. SDWF is a “No Guilt” organization - we offer many ways to engage so you can participate at the level that works best for you. No meetings or events are mandatory.

There are many ways to participate:

• Grants Process: Members drive our funding decisions through research, proposal reviews, site visits, and final voting. You can join any stage.
• Committees: Members can serve on committees such as Membership, Programs, Finance, Governance, Development, and various grants committees.
• Events: Social and educational events give members opportunities to connect, grow and learn.

• January–May joiners: March 1
• June–December joiners: September 1
  New members can join anytime. Renewal reminders are sent each year. Monthly installment payments are available for credit card users.

• Check payable to The San Diego Women’s Foundation
• Credit card (one-time or monthly)
• Stock or Donor Advised Fund (contact SDWF)
• Employer Matching Funds
  See more details on our Join Us page.

Yes! All contributions are fully tax-deductible.

Not at all! We provide all training and guidance, and you’ll work alongside experienced members to make informed, impactful funding decisions.

Members receive email invitations for every stage of the grants process. You can also contact SDWF staff anytime to get involved.

SDWF funds initiatives that benefit underserved communities in the San Diego region. Each year, our DIG (Discovery-Inquiry-Guidelines) Committee identifies priority issues where SDWF can make the most impact.

• SDWF is a supporting organization of SDF, giving us access to SDF’s workspace, technology, administrative services, and professional staff.
• SDWF staff are employed by SDF but fully dedicated to SDWF, benefiting from SDF’s professional support, including Finance, Marketing, and Impact teams.
• SDWF and SDF leadership collaborate through a Joint Leadership Group to ensure strategic alignment.

Yes. SDWF is independently registered as a 501(c)(3) and has its own Board of Directors. While we partner closely with SDF, we operate with the flexibility of a small nonprofit and the resources of a large foundation.