SDWF Critical Issue Education | Reel Talk: Understanding Senior Isolation
2024-10-30 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | San Diego Foundation, 2508 Historic Decatur Road ##200, San Diego, CA 92106, San Diego, CA, 92106
In June 2025, SDWF will award unrestricted funding to nonprofit organizations working to prevent and address senior isolation and loneliness through ongoing or increased social and community connections, especially for those most acutely impacted (low-income and those from under-resourced communities, the homebound, and individuals with disabilities).
Join us for a movie night and discussion on senior isolation.
Together, we will watch a documentary episode exploring how growing older can be an isolating experience while exploring innovative ways to create communities that prevent isolation and social withdrawal, followed by a facilitated discussion.
Must register in advance to attend. Popcorn and beverages provided.

SDWF Adventuring Philanthropists SD Wave Game
2024-11-03 14:30 - 16:30 | Snapdragon Stadium, 2101 Stadium Way, San Diego, CA, 92108, United States
All are invited for an exciting day of soccer, community, and unforgettable fun! Cheer on our team with fellow SDWF members and enjoy the electric stadium atmosphere.
We hope you can join us! Please register in advance so we know how many tickets to purchase.

SDWF LOI Review Training (Members Only)
2024-12-04 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom Meeting
LOI review is the first stage in SDWF’s annual grants selection process. This year, we anticipate a large number of applicants, and we need volunteers like you to help determine which organizations will move forward. SDWF Trainers will provide all the necessary information to help evaluators effectively read and score applications — no prior experience is necessary!
After the training, members will evaluate their assigned LOIs individually, making this an excellent opportunity for members with less flexible schedules to participate.
MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE TO RECEIVE ZOOM LINK & RECORDING
IMPORTANT DATES
December 4 – December 18: LOI Review (Members complete individually)
December 18: LOI Review Deadline

SDWF Holiday Party with a Purpose 2024
2024-12-11 16:00 - 18:00 | Private Home – Rancho Santa Fe, El Camino Real, Rancho Santa Fe, CA, 92091, United States
This season we’re getting into the spirit of giving by partnering with Cycle 24 Community Partner Monarch School Project to support their efforts to provide quality mental health support and wrap-around services to youth in San Diego County at our annual Holiday Party with a Purpose.
Monarch School Project has requested in-kind donations and monetary contributions to help support the families they serve.
SDWF Members & their guests only. Must register to attend! Dress is festive casual.
Special thanks to SDWF Board Member Rosette Garcia for hosting us in her home in Rancho Santa Fe.

Connected in Community: SDWF 25th Anniversary Gatherings
2025-01-15 16:00 - 18:00 | Del Mar – Private Home, 92014
Join us for an intimate series of gatherings hosted in member homes to honor the San Diego Women’s Foundation’s 25th anniversary. These special events offer a unique opportunity to reflect on our rich history, share stories of impact, and celebrate the exciting future ahead. Together, we’ll commemorate a quarter-century of empowering change and building stronger communities, one connection at a time.
This special gathering will bring SDWF members together in the home of Founding President Linda Katz to reflect on the SDWF’s profound impact over the past 25 years and set the stage for a year of growth, collaboration, and empowerment.
Enjoy light refreshments, meaningful conversations, and a sneak peek at the San Diego Women’s Foundation’s vision for the future. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to the cause, this will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about advancing women’s philanthropy and making a lasting difference in our community.
We look forward to celebrating the past, present, and future of the San Diego Women’s Foundation with you!
Please note that this gathering is only open to current SDWF members and founders.
As this will be hosted at a private home, the address will be sent to registrants closer to event date.

SDWF Critical Issue Education: Senior Isolation
2025-01-22 11:30 - 13:00 | Zoom Meeting
In June 2025, SDWF will award unrestricted funding to nonprofit organizations working to prevent and address senior isolation and loneliness by fostering ongoing or increased social and community connections, particularly for those most acutely impacted—low-income individuals, those from under-resourced communities, the homebound, and individuals with disabilities.
Join us on Wednesday, January 22nd, to hear from Amy Abrams, Chief Community Health Officer at Grossmont Healthcare District, and Israel Hernandez, Associate State Director – Advocacy at AARP California, as they discuss the critical issue of senior isolation and loneliness and explore strategies to address this growing concern.
Please note: Registration is required in advance to receive the Zoom link.
About our Speakers:
Amy Abrams holds a joint Master of Social Work and Master of Public Health from San Diego State University. She started her career in aging life care management, supporting individuals with chronic conditions and their caregivers. For seven years, Amy led education and community outreach programs at Alzheimer’s San Diego
Israel Hernandez is the Associate Director for Advocacy and Community Engagement at AARP San Diego. A former Marine Intelligence Specialist, he holds a BS in Health Communication from SDSU and an MA in Psychology & Human Behavior from National University. Israel has managed homes for adults with developmental disabilities and mental illness and led the Orange County Family Housing Agency.

SDWF Adventuring Philanthropists Trivia Night
2025-01-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Duck Foot Miramar, 8920 Kenamar Drive Suite 210, San Diego, CA, 92121, United States
Join the SDWF Adventuring Philanthropists for trivia at Duck Foot Miramar on Wednesday, January 29!
Test your knowledge, enjoy great beer, and connect with fellow SDWF members and friends. It’s sure to be an evening filled with laughs, learning, and friendly competition.
All are welcome—RSVP today to join the fun!

SDWF Cycle 25 Proposal Review Training (Members Only)
2025-02-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom Meeting
This members-only training is required for anyone planning to participate in SDWF proposal review.
Trainers will provide all the necessary information to effectively evaluate applications – no prior experience necessary! Reviewers will be assigned to a small team for proposal review. Teams will meet in person or virtually between February 7 – March 2 to review and score their assigned proposals.
**If you are unable to attend the live virtual training but would still like to participate in proposal review, a recorded training will be available. To select this option, please choose the recorded training option on the next page. **
MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE TO RECEIVE ZOOM LINK OR RECORDING
IMPORTANT DATES
Feb 7- March 2: Teams meet to review proposals (each team will meet once during this timeframe)
March 2: Review deadline

Connected in Community: SDWF 25th Anniversary Gatherings - Bankers Hill
2025-02-11 16:00 - 18:00 | Bankers Hill – Private Home, Address sent upon RSVP.
Join us for part two of a series of intimate gatherings hosted in member homes to honor the San Diego Women’s Foundation’s 25th anniversary. These special events offer a unique opportunity to reflect on our rich history, share stories of impact, and celebrate the exciting future ahead. Together, we’ll commemorate a quarter-century of empowering change and building stronger communities, one connection at a time.
This special gathering, co-hosted by longtime SDWF members Dale Spector and Nancy Spector, will bring SDWF members together to reflect on the SDWF’s profound impact over the past 25 years and set the stage for a year of growth, collaboration, and empowerment.
Enjoy light refreshments, meaningful conversations, and a sneak peek at the San Diego Women’s Foundation’s vision for the future. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to the cause, this will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about advancing women’s philanthropy and making a lasting difference in our community.
We look forward to celebrating the past, present, and future of the San Diego Women’s Foundation with you!
Please note that this gathering is only open to current SDWF members and founders.
As this will be hosted at a private home, the address will be sent to registrants closer to event date.

SDWF Philanthropy Fellowship Forum 2025
2025-02-13 15:00 - 16:00 | Zoom Meeting
The San Diego Women’s Foundation (SDWF) will soon begin accepting applications for Cohort 10 of the SDWF Philanthropy Fellowship Program!
The SDWF Philanthropy Fellowship is a two-year program for nonprofit professionals in San Diego who are seeking mentorship and professional development. The program includes full membership to SDWF and access to SDWF committees and activities for the duration of the fellowship, and provides a unique opportunity to learn about foundation work and grantmaking from the funder’s perspective.
The Fellowship term for Cohort 10 will begin on July 1, 2025.
Individuals interested in applying for the fellowship program are encouraged to attend this forum to learn more about the program, expectations, eligibility and the application process.
Must register in advance to attend – Zoom details will be sent closer to the event date.

Connection, Inspiration and Impact: Celebrating 10 Years of the Fellowship Program
2025-02-19 17:00 - 19:00 | Copley-Price Family YMCA, 4300 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, CA, 92105, United States
Join us as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the San Diego Women’s Foundation Fellowship Program. Founded in 2015, the Fellowship program has welcomed 37 nonprofit professionals into SDWF membership and acted as a catalyst for significant growth for the organization as a whole.
All members and guests are invited to enjoy an evening of inspiring stories from past fellows and board members and an opportunity to build meaningful connections.

SDWF Book Club
2025-03-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom Meeting
Back by popular demand, we will host an SDWF book club discussion that pertains to this year’s grant topic – Senior Isolation.
We will hold the book discussion on Wednesday, March 26, 12-1 PM. You do not need to read both books to participate in the discussion.
Must register in advance to attend – Zoom details and discussion questions will be sent closer to the event date.

Book 1: “Our Souls at Night” by Kent Haruf
A spare yet eloquent, bittersweet yet inspiring story of a man and a woman who, in advanced age, come together to wrestle with the events of their lives and their hopes for the imminent future.
In the familiar setting of Holt, Colorado, home to all of Kent Haruf’s inimitable fiction, Addie Moore pays an unexpected visit to a neighbor, Louis Waters. Her husband died years ago, as did his wife, and in such a small town they naturally have known of each other for decades; in fact, Addie was quite fond of Louis’s wife. His daughter lives hours away in Colorado Springs, her son even farther away in Grand Junction, and Addie and Louis have long been living alone in houses now empty of family, the nights so terribly lonely, especially with no one to talk with.
Book 2: “The Little Old Lady Who Broke All the Rules” by Catharina Ingelman-Sundberg
79-year-old Martha Anderson dreams of escaping her care home and robbing a bank. She has no intention of spending the rest of her days in an armchair and is determined to fund her way to a much more exciting life-style. Along with her four oldest friends – otherwise known as the League of Pensioners – Martha decides to rebel against all of the rules imposed upon them. Together, they cause an uproar with their antics: protesting against early bedtimes and plastic meals. As the elderly friends become more daring, their activities escalate and they come up with a cunning plan to break out of the care home and land themselves in a far more attractive Stockholm establishment.

SDWF Site Visit Training (Members Only)
2025-04-02 12:30 - 13:30 | Zoom Meeting
SDWF members are needed to help with the next stage in our grants selection process – site visits!
Site visits will take place in-person in small teams from April 14 – 18, providing members an opportunity to get to know applicant organizations on a deeper level and determine which organizations will appear on our final ballot.
All volunteers must attend/watch this mandatory training in order to participate.
Site visit times are pre-arranged with grant applicants, and members will be assigned to small teams to conduct site visits. Member assignments will be determined by the Site Visit Preference Form, so please be sure to submit your availability by 4/1!
**If you are unable to attend the live virtual training but would still like to participate in site visits, a recording will be offered. Please register and select the recorded training option**
Any SDWF member can participate in site visits. However, you must disclose all conflicts of interest to ensure that you are assigned appropriately. See the Site Visit Preference Form above for participating organizations and refrain from choosing any with which you have a conflict.

SDWF x SAY San Diego Community Partner Connection
2025-04-16 17:00 - 18:30 | SAY San Diego, 4775 Viewridge Avenue, San Diego, CA, 92123, United States
Join SDWF and SAY San Diego for an engaging and interactive experience where you will learn about SAY SD’s work in supporting and empowering youth in our community.
About SAY San Diego:
Founded in 1971 with just one employee and a big vision, SAY San Diego has grown into a trusted, multi-service nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth, families, and communities. Over the past 52 years, SAY has expanded to offer 30+ programs that promote lifelong success by addressing critical needs, from early childhood development to family strengthening and community well-being.
SAY’s school-based mental health initiatives provide cost-free therapeutic services to students in the San Diego Unified School District’s Madison and Patrick Henry clusters, serving five middle schools. Licensed and licensed-eligible clinicians offer on-site support, ensuring students facing barriers to care have access to vital mental health services. Therapy sessions—available before, during, and after school—include mental health assessments, individual, group, and family therapy, treatment planning, case management, and additional support to help students thrive.
All are welcome. We hope you can join us! Snacks and drinks will be provided, please register in advance.

Connected in Community: SDWF 25th Anniversary Gatherings
2025-04-23 16:00 - 18:00 | La Mesa – Private Home, La Mesa, San Diego, CA, 9949, United States
Join us for part three of a series of intimate gatherings hosted in member homes to honor the San Diego Women’s Foundation’s 25th anniversary. These special events offer a unique opportunity to reflect on our rich history, share stories of impact, and celebrate the exciting future ahead. Together, we’ll commemorate a quarter-century of empowering change and building stronger communities, one connection at a time.
This special gathering, hosted by SDWF founding member Valerie Jacobs, will bring SDWF members together to reflect on the SDWF’s profound impact over the past 25 years and set the stage for a year of growth, collaboration, and empowerment.
Enjoy light refreshments, meaningful conversations, and a sneak peek at the San Diego Women’s Foundation’s vision for the future. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or new to the cause, this will be a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about advancing women’s philanthropy and making a lasting difference in our community.
We look forward to celebrating the past, present, and future of the San Diego Women’s Foundation with you!
Please note that this gathering is only open to current SDWF members and founders.
As this will be hosted at a private home, the address will be sent to registrants closer to event date.

Finalist Forum (Members Only)
2025-05-08 17:00 - 18:30 | Zoom Meeting
All SDWF members are invited to attend the Finalist Forum. SDWF members who participated in Site Visits will share their key takeaways in support of our finalist organizations, making this an excellent opportunity to learn about the organizations that will appear on our final ballot.
We hope you can join us! Please register in advance.

SDWF Adventuring Philanthropists Hike
2025-06-08 08:00 - 10:00 | Equestrian Circle Trailhead, Equestrian Circle Trailhead, Santee, CA, 92071, United States
Join us for the SDWF Adventuring Philanthropist Hike on June 8 at 8:00 AM! We’ll meet at the bathrooms in the center of Equestrian Circle, where there’s plenty of parking available. This scenic 4.4-mile hike is a great way to connect with fellow SDWF members and enjoy the outdoors together. Be sure to wear shoes with good grip and bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Please RSVP so we don’t leave anyone behind!

Legacy In Action: SDWF 25th Annual Grants Celebration
2025-06-11 17:00 - 19:00 | Sanford Consortium, 2880 Torrey Pines Scenic Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, United States
On this special night, we will celebrate not only the incredible impact of our Community Partners, but also 25 years of collective philanthropy through the San Diego Women’s Foundation.
Together, we’ll award over $200,000 in new grant funding to organizations working to reduce senior isolation and loneliness in San Diego County — continuing our long-standing commitment to building stronger, more connected communities.
Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to a future filled with even greater impact.
ALL are welcome at this inspirational evening!
5:00 – 5:45: Hosted cocktail hour
5:45 – 7:00: Speaking program and grant awards
FAQs
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No, we will have your name on our registration lists.
Can I purchase a ticket at the event?
This event will sell out in advance, and you will not be able to purchase a ticket at the event.
Are sponsorship opportunities still available?
Yes! Please contact Stephanie Cook at stephaniec@sdfoundation.org for sponsorship details.

SDWF Summer Social
2025-08-26 17:30 - 19:00 | Gary and Mary West Senior Wellness Center, 1525 4th Ave, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
Join us on August 26 for our annual SDWF Summer Social!
This year, we’re gathering at Serving Seniors’ vibrant downtown location for an evening of connection, learning, and fun. Enjoy a glass of wine and light bites as we hear about the incredible work Serving Seniors is doing to combat senior isolation and support older adults in our community.
Guests will also have the opportunity to tour the facility and see their impact firsthand.
ALL are welcome!
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the dress code for the Summer Social? Smart Casual, summer dresses, slacks or nice jeans, and a blouse or button-down. We also recommend comfortable shoes, as tours of the facility will be offered.
Who is invited to this event? This event is open to nonmembers so feel free to bring a friend!

Courageous Leadership: Redefining Power Through Change, Care & Allyship
2025-09-03 16:30 - 18:30 | LPL Financial, 4707 Executive Drive, San Diego, CA, 92121, United States
The San Diego Women’s Foundation is proud to launch the inspiHER Series, a new program designed to inspire, educate, and empower women in leadership.
Join us on September 3rd from 4:30–6:00 PM at LPL Financial for the first session, “Courageous Leadership: Redefining Power Through Change, Care, and Allyship.” This timely conversation will explore how today’s leaders are reshaping traditional power structures with empathy, inclusion, and purpose.
Our featured speakers include:

Aneri Jambusaria, Managing Director
Christa Carrone, Chief Marketing & Communication Officer
Ken Hullings, Executive Vice President

This series is generously sponsored by LPL Financial and is open to all who are passionate about advancing equity and inclusive leadership in our region.
Snacks and drinks will be provided, please register in advance.

SDWF Adventuring Philanthropists: In the Garden
2025-09-13 08:00 - 10:00 | Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center, 2525 N Avenue, National City, CA, 91950, United States
Join us for a special hands-on volunteer day at Olivewood Gardens & Learning Center, where giving back meets outdoor fun for all ages! This kid-friendly event invites you to bring the little ones in your life for a morning of nature-based activities, learning, and connection.
Earlier this year, Olivewood Gardens & Learning Center was awarded a $10,000 grant from the San Diego Women’s Foundation (SDWF) Collaboration Committee, in partnership with the San Diego Foundation’s (SDF) Environmental Initiatives. This grant supports organizations advancing environmental justice, community organizing, and civic engagement throughout San Diego County. Located in National City, Olivewood empowers youth and adults through organic gardening, nutrition education, and environmental stewardship—promoting clean air, soil, and water while expanding access to fresh food. They also advocate for green space and train future environmental leaders through hands-on education programs.
What to Expect:

Hands-on volunteer activities in the garden (tailored to age groups—please RSVP for yourself and your guests so we can plan accordingly!)
A short tour of Olivewood Gardens
An introduction to Olivewood’s mission and community impact

What to Bring/Wear:

Comfortable clothing
Closed-toe shoes
Hat and sunscreen
Water

Come ready to get your hands dirty, connect with fellow members, and enjoy a morning of community, learning, and giving back in the beautiful Olivewood Gardens.

SDWF Cycle 26 Grantseekers Forum
2025-10-14 10:00 - 11:00 | Zoom Meeting
In advance of the Letter of Inquiry (LOI) deadline, SDWF invites and encourages all prospective applicants to attend our Cycle 26 Grantseekers Forum to learn about our current funding priority, the grants selection process, and how to apply.
This cycle, SDWF will award unrestricted funding to organizations in San Diego County working to expand affordable, accessible, and quality child care for infants and toddlers (ages 0-4 years).
All grantseekers are strongly encouraged to attend before submitting a Letter of Inquiry!
You can view the grant guidelines and application process here.
Must register in advance to receive zoom link.

SDWF Neighborhood Connection
2025-10-14 17:00 - 18:30 | Del Mar – Private Home, 92014
Join us on Tuesday, October 14 for a relaxed happy hour where passion meets purpose. Our Neighborhood Connection is the perfect chance to mingle with inspiring women who care deeply about strengthening our community.
Bring a friend! This gathering is designed for SDWF members and their guests—an easy, fun way to introduce someone new to the incredible impact of San Diego Women’s Foundation.
We’ll gather at the beautiful Del Mar home of SDWF member Madonna Messina, alongside co-host Kim Kleber, for an evening of connection, conversation, and community.
As this event is hosted at a private residence, the address will be shared with registrants closer to the date.

SDWF Critical Issue Education: Affordable Child Care
2025-10-22 12:00 - 13:00 | Online Event – Zoom
Join us to learn more about our new grants focus area: Affordable Child Care.

In June 2026, SDWF will award unrestricted funding to nonprofit organizations in San Diego County working to expand affordable, accessible, and quality child care for infants and toddlers (ages 0-4 years). We will prioritize organizations that provide services to families and communities with the least access today, and whose efforts contribute to long-term, systemic improvements to the child care landscape.
Join us on Wednesday, October 22, for an engaging virtual conversation about the urgent need for affordable child care and innovative strategies to strengthen the system for parents, providers, and communities alike. Our featured speakers — Congresswoman Sara Jacobs, Dr. Daniel Enemark, Nicole Gonzalez, and Kyle Fitzpatrick — will share insights, challenges, and solutions shaping the future of child care in San Diego.
Please note: Registration is required in advance to receive the Zoom link.

Defending Access, Driving Change: Jenny Black’s Leadership Story
2025-11-06 16:30 - 18:00 | Mission Valley
Join us for an inspiring keynote presentation with Jenny Black, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest.

We’re excited to continue the San Diego Women’s Foundation’s inspiHER Series — created to elevate and inspire women in leadership.
Join us for an inspiring keynote presentation with Jenny Black, President & CEO of Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest. Planned Parenthood was one of SDWF’s very first grantees, making this event especially meaningful as we celebrate 25 years of women’s leadership in philanthropy.
For more than a decade, Jenny has been a bold advocate for reproductive health and rights, championing access for women, the LGBTQ+ community, and underserved populations. She’ll share insights on resilience, advocacy, and the power of leadership to drive change and equity.
The first 30 minutes will be reserved for networking with light snacks and drinks, followed by our keynote presentation and audience Q&A.
Space is limited, and the event address will be shared with registered guests closer to the date.

SDWF LOI Review Training (Members Only)
2025-12-02 10:00 - 11:00 | Online Event – Zoom
This members-only training is required to participate in SDWF Letter of Inquiry (LOI) review.

LOI review is the first stage in SDWF’s annual grants selection process. This year, we anticipate a large number of applicants, and we need volunteers like you to help determine which organizations will move forward. SDWF Trainers will provide all the necessary information to help evaluators effectively read and score applications — no prior experience is necessary!
After the training, members will evaluate their assigned LOIs individually, making this an excellent opportunity for members with less flexible schedules to participate.
MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE TO RECEIVE ZOOM LINK & RECORDING
IMPORTANT DATES
December 2 – December 16: LOI Review (Members complete individually)
December 16: LOI Review Deadline
Note for New Members:
If you’re new to SDWF, please watch the Grants Orientation Recording before registering.
Link to Recording
Passcode: [REDACTED]

SDWF Holiday Party with a Purpose 2025
2025-12-11 16:00 - 18:00 | ElderHelp of San Diego, 9590 Chesapeake Drive, San Diego, CA, 92123, United States
Join us for a heartwarming holiday celebration! The San Diego Women’s Foundation invites you to our Holiday Party with a Purpose 2025 – a festive gathering featuring ElderHelp of San Diego, our Cycle 25 Community Partner dedicated to preventing and addressing senior isolation and loneliness. We’ll come together to spread cheer, give back to our community, and support a wonderful cause.
ElderHelp’s Holiday Angels program spreads holiday joy to hundreds of local seniors each year. Volunteers deliver warm wishes along with a festive plant, a $25 gift card, and a handmade greeting card to each senior, and pet owners even receive a little something for their furry friends. This outreach brightens spirits during a season when many older adults may feel especially alone – for some seniors, it will be the only gift they receive this holiday season.
We encourage guests to support the Holiday Angels initiative by donating $25 Walmart or Target gift cards, purchasing items from ElderHelp’s Amazon Wish List, or making a contribution online:

Gift Cards: Please mail or drop off gift cards by November 21 at ElderHelp of San Diego, 9590 Chesapeake Dr, San Diego, CA 92123.
Amazon Wish List: Purchase items directly from ElderHelp’s list to support local seniors.
Online Donations: You may also donate directly online.

Your generosity will help ensure no senior is forgotten this holiday. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of isolated seniors by sharing the joy and spirit of the season.
Please note: This event is open to SDWF members and their guests only. Registration is required, and festive casual attire is encouraged.

SDWF Critical Issue Education: Affordable Child Care
2026-01-26 12:00 - 13:00 | Online Event – Zoom
In June 2026, SDWF will award unrestricted funding to nonprofit organizations in San Diego County working to expand affordable, accessible, and quality child care for infants and toddlers (ages 0-4 years). We will prioritize organizations that provide services to families and communities with the least access today, and whose efforts contribute to long-term, systemic improvements to the child care landscape.
Join us on Monday, January 26, for an engaging virtual conversation about the urgent need for affordable child care and innovative strategies to strengthen the system for parents, providers, and communities alike. Our featured speakers Samantha Selstad and Barbara Suazo will share insights, challenges, and solutions shaping the future of child care in San Diego.
Please note: We are recording this session and will share a link to the video with everyone who registered.
About our Speakers:
Samantha Selstad
Samantha is an expert in the field of Early Childhood Development with a passion for neurological development, ethics, and developmentally appropriate practices. Samantha holds a B.A in Early Childhood Education from National University and a M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education from Pacific Oaks College. Samantha loves working with parents, teachers, and administrators to assist students in reaching developmental milestones and has two children as well.
Barbara Suazo
Barbara is a San Diego native, proud JIT alum and passionate advocate for parenting and early education support. Barbara’s day job involves channeling her diverse experiences and vibrant personality into creating lasting connections and impactful events, all while navigating the child care market and parenting two young kiddos.

SDWF Cycle 26 Proposal Review Training (Members Only)
2026-02-03 10:00 - 11:00 | Zoom Meeting
This members-only training is required for anyone planning to participate in SDWF proposal review.
Trainers will provide all the necessary information to effectively evaluate applications – no prior experience necessary! Reviewers will be assigned to a small team for proposal review. Teams will meet in person or virtually between February 5 – March 1 to review and score their assigned proposals.
**If you are unable to attend the live virtual training but would still like to participate in proposal review, a recorded training will be available. To select this option, please choose the recorded training option on the next page. **
MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE TO RECEIVE ZOOM LINK OR RECORDING
IMPORTANT DATES
Feb 5- March 1: Teams meet to review proposals (each team will meet once during this timeframe)
March 1: Review deadline

Adventuring Philanthropists: Galentine's Day Volunteer Event
2026-02-13 11:00 - 13:00 | Bayside Community Center, 2202 Comstock Street, San Diego, CA, 92111, United States
Join us for a special Galentine’s Day volunteer opportunity with Bayside Community Center as we support their Valentine’s Day Ice Cream Social for participants in their senior lunch program on Friday, February 13.

What to Expect:

11am: Arrive for set up
11:30am-12:30pm: Serve ice cream sundaes and socialize with seniors
12:30-1pm: Assist with clean up

Come solo or bring a friend, because celebrating Galentine’s Day is even better when you give back together.
