About Us



Who we are and what we do

The mission of the Marin Community Foundation is to encourage and apply philanthropic contributions to help improve the human condition, embrace diversity, promote a humane and democratic society, and enhance the community's quality of life, now and for future generations.

We fulfill our mission by:

  • Making grants and loans to support community issues in Marin County and beyond

  • Encouraging individuals, families, and businesses to partner with us to fulfill their financial and charitable goals, both here in Marin and beyond

  • Convening people to work on community problems

  • Honoring individuals and groups for improving our community

  • Providing meeting space for local nonprofit organizations

  • Housing a resource center to help people and businesses plan their charitable giving

  • Encouraging greater community involvement

Key facts
  • MCF was established in 1986 with the assets of a trust created by Leonard and Beryl H. Buck, who were long-time Marin residents.

  • Since then, over 300 individuals, families, businesses, and community groups have established funds at the Foundation. Grants made from these funds support a wide range of issues within Marin County, elsewhere in the U.S., and around the world.

  • When MCF was started, three Major Projects—Marin-based organizations working on three issues of national scope—were established under the Foundation’s umbrella. 

  • The Foundation is governed by a nine-member board of trustees and its President and CEO.

  • MCF is one of the largest community foundations in the U.S., with assets at the close of its 2007 fiscal year of $1.2 billion. Last year, MCF made $60,185,468 in grants and received $29,991,604 in gifts.

Learn More About Us

Report on 2008 Strategic Plan

MCF Trustees Select Two New Board Members

MCF Grants $450,000 for First Habitat for Humanity Homes in Marin County

2007 in Review


On exhibit March 3 - June 5: Home Front and Get Out of Jail Free: Work by Visual Aid artists (painting by Martine Jardel)

5 Hamilton Landing, Suite 200, Novato, CA 94949|email or call 415.464.2500|Directions