Through its annual Community Grants program, Community Foundation Santa Cruz County awarded $2 million to 100 local nonprofits.

In a news release, the foundation said the funding will help nonprofits respond to growing pressures as organizations are adapting to shifting budgets and new federal policies while also facing an increased need for services. The grants are intended to support the health and well-being of youth, seniors, immigrants and families, contributors to our arts and culture ecosystem, and partners working toward a sustainable and resilient Santa Cruz County where the land and people can thrive.

“The charitable funds that families have established here serve as our community’s permanent resource for strengthening the civic fabric that makes Santa Cruz County resilient,” Kevin Heuer, said the Community Foundation’s director of Engagement and Impact, in a release. “It’s a time of fiscal uncertainty for many nonprofits, but we’re proud to be able to offer steady, reliable funding to our trusted partners so they can continue their vital work caring for our community’s needs.”

Community grants are supporting safety net providers of food, shelter, and health care, including Dientes, Community Bridges, Housing Matters, Pajaro Valley Shelter Services, Santa Cruz Community Health and Second Harvest Food Bank.

“With potential policy changes in the healthcare landscape, this flexible funding allows us to respond dynamically to community needs, helping to ensure that the 15,000+ people we serve can access quality dental care,” said Dientes CEO Laura Marcus in a release. Dientes received a $25,000 grant.

Grant funding also supports the essential needs and legal aid for the immigrant community is going to Watsonville Law Center, Community Action Board, Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey and Salud Para La Gente.

“Local philanthropy will not be able to fill the gap from federal funding changes, but generosity in all forms always helps,” said Community Foundation CEO Susan True in a release. “Thanks to the charitable foresight of previous generations, combined with local giving today, we are taking care of each other now and will continue to do so in the future.”

MAH announces Historic Landmark Blue Plaque Award recipients

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History announced the 2025 Historic Landmark Blue Plaque Award Recipients at the History Fair May 17.

The 2025 Historic Landmark Blue Plaque awardees were The Garret House (Santa Cruz), The Palmer House (Aptos), The Venetian Court (Capitola), The Duncan and Amelia McPherson House (Santa Cruz, re-plaque) The Colligan Theater at the Tannery (Santa Cruz), The Kron House at the Tannery (Santa Cruz, re-plaque), The Dry House at the Tannery (Santa Cruz, re-plaque), The Live Oak Grange (Live Oak), The Porter Building (Watsonville, re-plaque), The Windmill House (Capitola, re-plaque) and The Silo House (Capitola, re-plaque).

This year marks the 52nd anniversary of the MAH’s historic landmark program.

“I’m proud to honor Santa Cruz’s historic built environment through the Blue Plaque Program, and excited to recognize this year’s recipients” said MAH Archives Specialist Jessie Durant in a release. “By celebrating these remarkable places and the stories they hold, we’re keeping our city’s rich history alive for future generations.”

Bay Federal Employees Annual Fundraiser Gives Back in a Big Way

Bay Federal Credit Union employees raised $15,000 for two local nonprofits during the Credit Union’s annual Employee Appreciation event, turning a fun night into meaningful community impact.

Employees raised $10,000 through ticket sales and donations. Bay Federal contributed $5,000, bringing the total to $15,000. The funds were split equally between BirchBark Foundation and Pajaro Valley Arts, which were chosen by employees as this year’s featured nonprofit partners.

BirchBark Foundation helps low-income families care for their pets during emergency situations, ensuring that financial hardship doesn’t mean saying goodbye to a beloved furry family member. They also offer grief support and education because they know that love for pets runs deep.

Pajaro Valley Arts has been creating a community through creativity for more than 40 years. From youth programs to inspiring exhibits, they ensure art is accessible to everyone in the Pajaro Valley, regardless of age or background.

“Because of the generous giving of Bay Federal employees, the lives of at least 10 pets will be saved—and the hearts of their families kept whole,” said Amy Boyle of the BirchBark Board of Directors in a release. “Your kindness ensures that families won’t have to face the heartbreak of surrender or loss simply because they can’t afford emergency care. We at BirchBark Foundation are deeply thankful.”

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