who we are

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Who We Are

We weave the work of communities, connecting and uplifting passionate people, critical resources and transformational ideas. Working side by side with every corner and sector of our region, we have identified social and economic justice as the most critical elements to a thriving community. We serve to advance efforts in these areas by fostering impactful giving, trusted partnerships and authentic engagement for a more equitable southwest Washington.

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Six women, including Deanna Green and Karen Morrison, standing together and smiling in the lobby of our 2023 Annual Luncheon, Take Root

Our Mission

We engage communities and mobilize resources to create a southwest Washington where everyone can chart their own path toward prosperity and participate fully in shaping our region’s future.

Our Vision

We envision a flourishing and just southwest Washington, where prosperity is shared, belonging is universal and everyone holds a deep commitment to caring for one another.

Our Values

Make a place for everyone.

We create a sense of belonging by embracing, respecting and celebrating the people and perspectives that make our region culturally rich and resilient.

Equity is essential.

We know equity is the key to creating a more just world, and centering racial equity allows us to more effectively address the disparities and barriers that hamper our collective potential.

Learn at every turn.

We are passionately curious, continuously listening to and learning from our partners and communities in order to leverage our collective knowledge and experiences for greater impact.

Forge connections for good.

We walk alongside communities to foster authentic, lasting partnerships across all sectors, and we build the bonds and bridges of social capital to strengthen our region for the long term.

Serve generations to come.

As an accountable steward of this place, its people and our shared priorities, we manage the resources entrusted to us responsibly and transform them into immediate and lasting impacts that respond to the wishes of our donors and communities.

Large group of black, brown and white people smiling at the camera at our Annual Luncheon, Take Root, in 2023

Our Impact

We believe the best solutions reside right here, in southwest Washington, and we trust and empower our partners to bring those ideas to life. Lighting paths to opportunity for our neighbors who face the greatest barriers creates the greatest impact and ensures that everyone can thrive.
Our staff standing together outside

Our Team

A key difference between the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington and a commercial provider of charitable funds is the people. We have a mighty team and a respected board. Together, we bring a rich blend of professional knowledge, lived experience and personal passion to our work.
Photo of our Board of Directors on a retreat in 1996

Our History

Launched in 1984 by Mary Granger and a passionate group of community champions, the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington provided a way for residents to pool their charitable giving for local impact. Over the decades, we have become a force for creating lasting change in our region.

Commitment to Equity

Equity and inclusion are central to our mission.

We believe the narrative of our region should reflect all its people. This core belief drives the decisions we make and the work we do.