Grant Focus

Environmental justice is an important part of the struggle to improve and maintain a clean and healthful environment, especially for marginalized communities who have been forced to live, work, and play closest to sources of pollution. Environmental justice essentially means that everyone—regardless of race, color, national origin, or income—has the right to the same environmental protections and benefits, as well as meaningful involvement in the policies that shape their communities. But this has rarely been the reality because virtually all environmental injustice is shaped by the same patterns of racism and inequality that have existed in the United States since its founding and continue to influence every facet of our society, from education to housing to health care.

Environmental justice (EJ) civic engagement and community organizing is a grassroots movement focused on addressing the disproportionate environmental burdens faced by low-income communities, particularly communities of color. These burdens often manifest in the form of exposure to pollution, hazardous waste sites, and inadequate access to clean air, water, and land. Civic engagement within this field seeks to amplify the voices of affected communities, advocating for policy changes, health improvements, and a more equitable distribution of environmental resources. Philanthropic funding plays a crucial role in supporting these efforts, empowering organizations to engage in activism, policy advocacy, and community-driven solutions.

Funding Partners

About San Diego Foundation

San Diego Foundation inspires enduring philanthropy and enables community solutions to improve the quality of life in our region. Our strategic priorities include advancing racial and social justice, fostering equity of opportunity, building resilient communities, and delivering world-class philanthropy to realize our vision of just, equitable and resilient communities. The Environmental Initiative seeks to preserve and protect our resources, build a more sustainable path of economic growth and ensure a higher quality of life for those who call San Diego home. For 50 years, SDF and its donors have granted $1.8 billion to support nonprofit organizations strengthening our community. Learn more at Environment Programs & Initiatives | San Diego Foundation

About San Diego Women’s Foundation Collaboration Committee

San Diego Women’s Foundation’s Collaboration Committee, a subset of its membership that seeks to increase impact by partnering with other philanthropic funders. Separate from the annual grants process, investment opportunities are identified by a committee of contributing members, who give $500 in additional dues towards the collaborative grants pool.