ENCINITAS — Coastal Community Foundation has merged with the San Diego Foundation through a new strategic partnership that aims to expand philanthropic impact in north coastal San Diego County.
As of Aug. 26, Coastal has integrated its assets and staff into the San Diego Foundation’s operations.
“Our partnership will help us be more effective and increase the impact of the work we do to make our communities a better place to live,” said Pete Iverson, chairman emeritus of the Coastal board. “San Diego Foundation is our regional community foundation with nearly 50 years of service and impact. It’s that stability, trust and community knowledge that also makes it a valuable strategic partner for Coastal Community Foundation.”
“We are delighted to have a partner who deepens the services and support offered to our fundholders, while respecting the need to retain the community and local connections that make Coastal Community Foundation so special,” Iverson added.
This partnership will allow Coastal to:
- Provide a higher level of service for its donors
- Increase giving and grant impact with nonprofit partners in North San Diego County
- Better utilize staff and financial resources to build relationships and grow resources
- Increase access for donors to high-level philanthropic expertise and opportunities.
Coastal will retain its brand and identity and continue to honor its history, according to the foundation. Additionally, Executive Director Lane Macy Kiefaber will retain her position serving local donors and join the San Diego Foundation Development and Donor Engagement team.
Coastal will continue to share its offices with San Diego Foundation at the historic home of the Ecke Family, the Farmhouse at Leichtag Commons in Encinitas.
“We’re incredibly impressed with Coastal Community Foundation’s legacy and are excited to get to know Coastal donors to learn how we can help with their charitable goals,” said Mark Stuart, president and chief executive officer of San Diego Foundation. “San Diego Foundation has a vision for just, equitable and resilient communities, and like Coastal, we believe everyone in our communities should have the opportunity to prosper, thrive and feel like they belong.”
Since 2009, San Diego Foundation and its fundholders have made more than 5,000 grants of nearly $70 million to hundreds of North County nonprofits focused on community needs, including critical areas like education, scholarships and children’s mental health. The foundation’s affiliates, Oceanside Community Foundation and Carlsbad Charitable Foundation, have served North County neighborhoods for more than 18 years with grantmaking and endowment building.
