Our History
From a small group of volunteers to a powerful community of changemakers, our story is rooted in collective giving and a shared commitment to strengthening San Diego.
Our Founding
In 2000, a small group of San Diego volunteers recognized changing patterns in philanthropy, particularly the growing interest in women’s giving and leadership.
Inspired by similar efforts in a few cities across the country, they envisioned an organization that would expand opportunities to learn about critical issues, engage more deeply in philanthropy, and make a meaningful difference in the San Diego region. That vision led to the founding of the San Diego Women’s Foundation as a supporting organization of the San Diego Foundation.
Built for Engagement
From the start, SDWF was designed to be more than a grantmaking organization. Our unique collective giving model invites members to take an active role in philanthropy - learning alongside our nonprofit partners, asking questions, and generating impactful grants. Members contribute annually based on their giving capacity and have a direct voice in where funding goes. Through a thoughtful, structured process, they build a deeper understanding of community needs while working together to support solutions that make a real difference in our region. Learning is a core part of the experience, with programs and conversations that connect members to the issues shaping San Diego and the people working to address them.
Growing Our Impact
and Community
What began as a small founding group quickly grew into a strong and engaged membership. By 2002, membership reached 135 and SDWF established its first endowment to support the community in perpetuity
Over time, the organization expanded its grantmaking approach, strengthened its leadership structure, and deepened its relationships with community partners. Today, SDWF is a thriving network of more than 200 members committed to thoughtful, informed philanthropy.
A Legacy that Endures
From its earliest days, SDWF’s founders were thinking beyond the present moment. They envisioned an organization that would not only respond to today’s needs, but continue to serve and strengthen the San Diego community for generations to come.
That vision is reflected in the creation of a permanent endowment, built through the contributions of members over time.
But the true legacy of SDWF extends beyond financial resources. It lives in the community of engaged philanthropists it has cultivated, the knowledge it has shared, and the lasting relationships it has built between members and nonprofit partners. It is a legacy of learning, trust, and shared action, one that continues to grow with each new generation of members.
Key Milestones
2000–2001
SDWF is founded as a supporting organization of the San Diego Foundation to strengthen and expand women’s engagement in philanthropy.2001–2002
Membership grows to 135, the first SDWF logo is adopted, and an endowment is established.
2004–2005
Endowment surpasses $1 million. SDWF is named Outstanding Philanthropic Organization by AFP San Diego and receives the Friend of the Urban Corps award.2006–2007
First Executive Director, Tracy Johnson, is hired. Discovery Teams are launched to guide grant focus areas.2010–2011
Total grants surpass $2 million. Strategic enhancements to the grantmaking process are introduced, including a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) stage.2012–2013
Launched the SDWF Young Philanthropist (YP) Program and introduced a second dues tier to encourage and engage members under age 40 (now known as Adventuring Philanthropists, or AP).2014–2015
Transition to research-based and issue-driven grantmaking. Collaboration Initiative and Fellowship Program are introduced.2016–2017
2018–2019
2019–2020
2021–2022
2023–2024
Recognized with the Philanthropy in Peacemaking Award and transition to multi-year funding to deepen support for community partners.2025
Celebrated SDWF's 25th Anniversary and 10th Anniversary of the Fellowship Program
2025
Recognized as ElderHelp’s 2025 Community Partner at the Essence of Life Awards
2025
Launched the SDWF inspiHER series to inspire, educate, and empower women in leadership
2026
Launched Next25, including a promotional membership rate of $750 for new members. This limited-time opportunity invites new voices to be part of SDWF’s collective impact as we build the next 25 years together.
2026
Inaugurated the SDWF Inspire Awards, which celebrates individuals whose vision and work inspire, uplift, and empower others within the San Diego Women’s Foundation and across San Diego.
Looking Ahead
As SDWF looks to the future, our commitment remains as strong as ever. The challenges facing our region continue to evolve, and so does the opportunity to respond with thoughtful, trust-based philanthropy. By continuing to bring people together to learn, connect, and give, SDWF is not only addressing today’s needs, but helping shape a more equitable and resilient San Diego for years to come.
The next chapter of this story will be written by those who choose to engage, building on a foundation of shared purpose and meaningful action.