San Diego is fortunate in many ways – its temperate climate, beautiful geography, and outdoor areas for recreation. It has also been fortunate enough to benefit from the vision of Gerald T. & Inez Grant Parker who in 1971 started The Parker Foundation, a private foundation, which was established to lead to the betterment of life for all people of San Diego County through a variety of charitable organizations.
The Parker Foundation has the distinction of being one of San Diego’s most generous grantors during the past 50 years. With grants totaling more than $56 million over its 50 years, it has been an essential part of building and sustaining the region’s non-profit community. Begun with $4 million in 1971, and despite its significant contributions over the years, the endowment continues to grow and is currently valued in excess of $40 million.
One of the keys to its success has been the long-term commitments its board has made in service to the Foundation. By combining deep expertise in non-profit management with intricate knowledge of the San Diego non-profit community, the board has steered The Parker Foundation well.
A primary goal of The Parker Foundation during this significant milestone is to encourage others to consider philanthropy through a Private Foundation. There are many reasons why using a Private Foundation as a vehicle for giving makes sense. You can read a side-by-side comparison of the benefits and features of a Private Foundation as compared to Donor Advised Funds in this downloadable analysis by Foundation Source. For purpose-driven organizations and businesses, establishing a Private Foundation is an excellent way to ensure its mission can continue for decades.
