Reimagining the Path to a Thriving Bay Area

We envision a vibrant region rich with diverse expressions and experiences, where people feel safe and connected; live with a sense of belonging, shared humanity, and dignity; and have equitable opportunities to thrive.

Looking Back

For more than 65 years, the Zellerbach Family Foundation has been a catalyst for constructive social change by initiating and investing in work that strengthens families and communities in the Bay Area.

Moving Forward

Building on this legacy, ZFF and our grantmaking partners are working together to better address the barriers that keep individuals and families from thriving, and expand the opportunities available to them.

To realize this vision we start with four building blocks of change

Build Power

People have information and tools to shape the decisions that impact them and agency to shape the conditions of their families and communities.

Diversify Art and Cultural Expression

Arts and culture live at the center of thriving communities so all voices are valued and supported and people have access to art that reflects their personal and community experiences.

Promote Shared Experiences, Ally-ship, and Collective Healing

Individuals and communities with different life experiences find common purpose, build trust, and have culturally relevant opportunities to heal.

Transform Public Systems

People feel safe and connected with their communities, their voices inform systems change, and investments prioritize community-based opportunities including more arts experiences.

To realize this vision we start with four building blocks of change

Diversify Art and Cultural Expression

Build Power

Transform Public Systems

Promote Shared Experiences, Ally-ship, and Collective Healing

We work with our grantees and partners to promote three strategic areas that advance the building blocks of change

Our investment areas put the building blocks and strategies into practice​

Safety & Belonging

Promoting belonging, connection, and a shared sense of safety

Arts & Culture

Ensuring the voices, experiences, traditions, and dreams of all individuals can be celebrated

With a geographic focus that lifts up innovation and collaboration to benefit the entire Bay Area region

San Francisco
Contra Costa
Alameda

Through grantmaking and partnerships,

we promote belonging, connection, and
a shared sense of safety

among people and communities across the Bay Area and California.