2004 Grants Awarded

Environmental Grants | Medical and Scientific Project Grants
Political Reform and Global Theme Grants
Silicon Valley Community Grants | Discretionary Grants


In 2004, we distributed 134 grants totaling $2,290,660 to organizations in the following categories (number of grants and total grant money by category provided):
Environmental
26 grants
$392,500
Kirsch Investigators
0 grants
$0
Medical and Scientific Projects
6 grants
$291,072
Political Reform and Global Theme
20 grants
$354,000
Silicon Valley Community
58 grants
$999,118
Discretionary
24 grants
$253,970


Environmental Grants

American Lung Association of San Francisco & San Mateo Counties: $12,500
www.lungusa2.org/sanfrancisco_sanmateo/
Originally founded in 1908 to fight the spread of tuberculosis, the American Lung Association of San Francisco & San Mateo Counties (ALASFSM) now focuses on reducing morbidity and mortality in children and adults with chronic and acute lung disease through education and direct service programs. This grant supports ALASFSM's participation on the Bay Area Air Quality Management District's (BAAQMD) Community Air Risk Evaluation Program (CARE). The CARE program is a new million-dollar program of the BAAQMD to gather data on cumulative air pollution in a variety of communities throughout the Bay Area.
Why we supported: ALASFSM's participation in the CARE program will ensure that the environmental justice perspective is properly represented in the program's implementation.

Bluewater Network: $10,000
www.bluewaternetwork.org
Based in San Francisco, Bluewater Network is an environmental organization aggressively confronting the root causes of climate change and fighting environmental damage from the shipping, oil, and motorized recreation industries. This grant supports Bluewater Network's work to ensure strong implementation of AB 1493, a piece of legislation that the Foundation is actively supporting, and for which it is a prior grantee.
Why we supported: As the organization that originally drafted the legislation later named AB 1493, it has an important part to play in the collaborative effort to create strong implementation of this landmark bill.

California Environmental Rights Alliance: $20,000
www.EnviroRights.org
Founded in January 2003, the California Environmental Rights Alliance (CERA) is dedicated to achieving environmental health and justice in California by improving the quality of environmental decisions and through the empowerment of communities. This grant supports CERA's work with the California Environmental Protection Agency, California Air Resources Board, and the South Coast Air Quality Management District to develop and impact policies to reduce mobile source air pollution in California.
Why we supported: CERA is the only organization dedicated to representing environmental justice interests at the state agency level, an emerging interest that has not been prominent in most past clean air efforts.

California League of Conservation Voters: $3,500
www.ecovote.org
The California League of Conservation Voters (CLCV) is the non-partisan political action arm of California's environmental movement. CLCV's mission is to protect the environmental quality of the state by increasing public awareness of the environmental performance of all elected officials, working to elect environmentally responsible candidates, and holding them accountable to the environmental agenda once elected. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $1,000 for general operating support
  • $2,500 for the 2004 Environmental Leadership Awards Dinner honoring Senator Byron Sher

Why we supported: These are discretionary grants recommended by Steve Kirsch.

California State Parks Foundation: $1,000
www.calparks.org
The California State Parks Foundation is an independent non-profit membership organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing California state parks. This grant provides support for educational and outreach programs.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve and Michele Kirsch.

Californians Against Waste Foundation: $25,000
www.cawrecycles.org
Californians Against Waste Foundation (CAWF) was founded in 1984 as a broad-based citizens' organization dedicated to reducing the over-consumption of our planet's natural resources and the destruction of its environment. This grant supports CAWF's efforts to establish a special state fund to help finance the conversion of the more than 12,000 diesel-powered waste vehicles currently operating in the state to alternative fuels.
Why we supported: Diesel emissions comprise the most toxic mobile source emissions, and CAWF has identified a unique opportunity to reduce diesel emissions in California.

Californians for Pesticide Reform: $20,000
www.pesticidereform.org
Founded in 1996, Californians for Pesticide Reform's (CPR) mission is to protect public health, improve environmental quality and expand a sustainable and just agriculture system by building a diverse movement across California that changes statewide pesticide policies and practices. This grant will help CPR bring a legal case against the California Department of Pesticide Regulation for its failure to assess the potential adverse health impacts from airborne pesticide drift as required by law.
Why we supported: Pesticide drift is a significant component of the San Joaquin Valley's air pollution problems, which the Foundation has identified as a funding priority.

Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technologies (CEERT): $1,000
www.ceert.org
Founded in 1990, CEERT's mission is to promote public awareness and attainment of the air quality improvement and other public benefits available through increased utilization of energy conservation and nonpolluting electricity generation. This grant will fund a series of meetings between agricultural representatives and air quality advocates in the San Joaquin Valley.
Why we supported: Agricultural activities are responsible for a significant portion of the air quality problem in the San Joaquin Valley; these meetings are meant to open the dialogue between two groups in order to find common ground and to discuss differences.

Center on Race, Poverty, & the Environment: $25,000
www.crpe-ej.org
For over 14 years, the Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment has worked to build strong environmental leaders in poor rural communities. This grant will support the Center's San Joaquin Valley Air Quality Project, which combines grassroots organizing and advocacy with litigation.
Why we supported: The Center has over 14 years of successful advocacy and litigation in the San Joaquin Valley, and will continue to work with a broad range of community groups fighting for cleaner air. The Foundation has made it a priority to work in the Central Valley as it is considered to have the worst air quality in the U.S.

Communities for a Better Environment: $10,000
www.cbecal.org
Founded in 1978, Communities for a Better Environment (CBE) is an environmental health and justice nonprofit organization promoting clean air, clean water and the development of toxin-free communities. This funding is for general operating support.
Why we supported: CBE has a successful history of environmental justice grassroots organizing and coalition building. It is a prior grant recipient.

Earthjustice: $25,000
www.earthjustice.org
Founded in 1971, Earthjustice is a non-profit public interest law firm dedicated to protecting the magnificent places, natural resources, and wildlife of this earth and to defending the right of all people to a healthy environment. This grant will support Earthjustice's California Air Quality Campaign, which includes air quality litigation at the regional, state, and federal level, with a special emphasis on the San Joaquin Valley's air pollution problems.
Why we supported: Litigation is a key tool in ensuring the implementation of strict clean air programs. Earthjustice has successfully represented numerous clients, both in the San Joaquin Valley and statewide. This represents our fourth grant to Earthjustice and we are pleased to continue our support of its excellent work.

Environment California Research & Policy Center: $40,000
www.environmentcalifornia.org
Formerly CalPIRG Charitable Trust, Environment California Research & Policy Center draws on 30 years of experience tackling the state's worst environmental problems. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $20,000 to help provide the newly elected Governor of California with the research and proposed solutions necessary to achieve his campaign promise to cut air pollution statewide by up to 50%.
  • $20,000 to generate public pressure on the California Air Resources Board and Governor Schwarzenegger to support strong implementation of AB 1493 (Pavley).

Why we supported: Air pollution reduction in California is a primary goal of the Foundation. This organization is a prior grant recipient under its previous name.

Environmental & Energy Study Institute: $10,000
www.eesi.org
Founded in 1984, the Environmental & Energy Study Institute (EESI) is dedicated to promoting environmentally sustainable societies. This grant supports EESI's work to educate policymakers in Washington, DC, about the need to address climate change.
Why we supported: While climate change legislation continues to advance at the state level, the environmental community must continue to advocate at the federal level for meaningful legislation to address climate change.

Environmental Defense: $25,000
www.environmentaldefense.org
Environmental Defense (ED) is a leading national nonprofit organization representing more than 400,000 members. Since 1967, it has linked science, economics and law to create innovative, equitable and cost-effective solutions to society's most urgent environmental problems. This grant will fund short-term air quality monitoring in the West side of the San Joaquin Valley.
Why we supported: Currently, nearly all of the pollutant monitors in the San Joaquin Valley are located on the East side of the Valley, in the highly populated cities and towns along the Highway 99 corridor. Air quality advocates in the Valley have argued unsuccessfully for years for monitoring in the West side of the Valley. This short-term monitoring project will arm advocates with the data necessary to successfully petition the state and local air district to monitor the West side's air quality.

Environmental Grantmakers Association: $1,000
www.ega.org
EGA supports member organizations in grantmaking that protects the environment and its inhabitants, and to provide means for them to:

  • Connect with, encourage, and challenge one another;
  • Explore environmental issues and grantmaking; and
  • Promote, diversify, and expand environmental philanthropy.

Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant.

Environmental Law Institute: $10,000
www.eli.org
Established in 1970, the Environmental Law Institute (ELI) is a global leader in protecting our environment through law, policy, and management. It is an internationally recognized, independent research and education center that activates a broad constituency of environmental professionals in government, industry, the private bar, public interest groups, and academia. This grant will support ELI's Endangered Environmental Laws Campaign, which will continue to investigate, report on, and respond to the ongoing crisis that is weakening the constitutional underpinnings of our nation's environmental laws.
Why we supported: Although the work supported by this grant does not fall within the funding criteria for the Environmental Grants Program, the Foundation considers it critical that we protect the federal laws that the environmental community uses to protect our air, water and land. We decided to continue to fund ELI due to the urgency posed by the judicial threat to these environmental laws, and the fact that the judiciary is currently the "court of last resort" as both the Executive and Legislative branches are not sympathetic to environmental issues.

Fresno-Madera Medical Society: $10,000
www.fmms.org
Founded in 1883, the Fresno-Madera Medical Society (FMMS) is the oldest organization of professionals in Fresno. Part of the mission of FMMS is to enhance the public's health. This grant supports the printing and distribution of FMMS' educational clean air brochure throughout the San Joaquin Valley.
Why we supported: FMMS seeks to educate San Joaquin Valley residents about the threat to their health from air pollution, as well as what each resident can do to work towards cleaner air. This is consistent with and promotes the Foundation's strategic activities.

Fresno Metro Ministry: $25,000
www.fresnometroministry.org
Founded in 1970, Fresno Metro Ministry works to create a more respectful, compassionate and inclusive community that promotes social and economic justice. This grant will support an additional staff person to organize and coordinate the developing coalition of air quality advocates in and for the San Joaquin Valley.
Why we supported: While environmental health is a relatively new focus area for Metro, the organization has a 30-plus year history of engaging the community in problem-solving, education, and advocacy. Through its extensive community networking efforts, workshops and conferences, task forces, action teams, staff and board, it has established itself as a reputable and trusted entity working for the underserved, and for the greater good of the community, especially as it pertains to health. An additional staff person at Metro will increase the effectiveness of the entire developing air quality coalition in the Valley.

Latino Issues Forum: $15,000
www.lif.org
Established in 1987, the Latino Issues Forum (LIF) is non-profit public policy and advocacy organization dedicated to advancing new and innovative public policy solutions for a better, more equitable and prosperous society. This grant will support Latino Issues Forum's grassroots organizing and advocacy efforts within the Latino community in the San Joaquin Valley targeting the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District.
Why we supported: LIF remains the only statewide Latino-based organization that works on environmental issues in California. As this can be viewed as an environmental justice issue, LIF will help engage the Latino community in the Valley in the air quality fight.

Natural Resources Defense Council: $11,000
www.nrdc.org
For over 30 years, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has used law, science, and the support of more than 500,000 members nationwide to protect the planet's wildlife and wild places, and to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all living things. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $10,000 to support NRDC's California Dump Dirty Diesel Campaign. Current goals of this campaign are to reduce diesel emissions from school buses and around ports.
  • $1,000 for the Council of 1000 Leadership Circle matching grant

Why we supported: NRDC's work, especially as it relates to California air quality, is consistent with the Foundation's environmental agenda. NRDC is a prior grant recipient.

Sierra Club: $50,000
www.sierraclub.org
The purposes of the Sierra Club are to explore, enjoy, and protect the wild places of the earth; to practice and promote the responsible use of the earth's ecosystems and resources; to educate and enlist humanity to protect and restore the quality of the natural and human environment; and to use all lawful means to carry out these objectives. This funding supports the Sierra Club's advocacy activities nationwide to ensure continued strength in our environmental laws and regulations.
Why we supported: This grant, funded through the Foundation's discretionary funds on the recommendation of Steve Kirsch, helps to maintain current, progressive U.S. laws and regulations, consistent with the Foundation's environmental views.

Union of Concerned Scientists: $42,500
www.ucsusa.org
Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), founded in 1969, is an independent, nonprofit alliance of 100,000 concerned citizens and scientists across the country. The group augments rigorous scientific analysis with innovative thinking and committed citizen advocacy to build a cleaner, healthier environment and a safer world. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $25,000 to support UCS's work to ensure continued progress towards vehicle emission reductions in California from both diesel and gasoline powered vehicles, and to develop a realistic policy roadmap for hydrogen fuel cells.
  • $17,500 to create a San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Policy Report that will describe the legislative and regional policies being considered to improve air quality in the San Joaquin Valley within the historical context of the region's pollution.

Why we supported: UCS is one of the preeminent organizations in California spearheading the push for clean vehicles in California, a major objective of the Kirsch Foundation, and has proven itself effective over the years. It is also well versed in air quality issues and has the capacity to provide a technical and policy-oriented paper on these issues. UCS is a prior grant recipient.

Medical and Scientific Project Grants

Catalyst for Hair Follicle Biology: $120,000
www.kirschfoundation.org/how/project/collaborative_hair_follicle.html
Established in December 2002, this two-year program totals $230,000 in funding and brings together two leading hair follicle biologists. The members are Angela Christiano, Ph.D. (Columbia University, New York) and Colin Jahoda, Ph.D. (Durham University, England). This funding includes the following grants:

  • $100,000 for the second payment of this two-year grant.
  • $10,000 for travel costs for both research teams.

Why we supported: The original funding of Dr. Christiano's work was actively initiated by the Kirsch Foundation since it addresses a Foundation's funding priority: treatments and cures for baldness. Dr. Christiano has been successful in her research to date and this formal consortium project offers the potential to build upon the results that she and Dr. Colin Jahoda have achieved through their informal collaboration thus far. We hope that by encouraging and supporting an effective collaboration, we will add real value to the work being conducted in the laboratories and send a positive message that can be leveraged into securing more funding from other sources including the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research: $30,000
www.camradvocacy.org
The Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR) was formed in March 2001 as a 501(c)(4) organization to ensure that the full capability of the biomedical research workforce is directed toward bringing the remarkable potential of embryonic stem cells to fruition. CAMR's membership is that of nationally recognized patient organizations, universities, scientific societies, foundations, and individuals with life-threatening diseases and disorders. It advocates the advancement of breakthrough research and technologies in regenerative medicine, including stem cell research and somatic cell nuclear transfer ("SCNT", commonly called "therapeutic cloning") in order to cure disease and alleviate suffering. This grant will support CAMR's core activities for 2004. CAMR is a prior grantee.
Why we supported: Funding of stem cell research and the continued legality of therapeutic cloning holds the promise of saving the lives of millions of Americans suffering from illnesses including Alzheimer's disease, ALS, heart disease, cancer, spinal cord injury and diabetes. Joining other highly regarded groups in this coalition helps to ensure the most effective allocation of philanthropic dollars to address health/medical issues and encourages critical research. Susan Frank, Vice President, Public Policy, for the Foundation, currently serves as an officer on the CAMR Board.

Glaucoma Research Foundation: $127,072
www.glaucoma.org
The Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) is the oldest national voluntary health agency dedicated to protecting the sight and independence of people with glaucoma. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $27,072 for the second payment of a two-year grant that provides supplemental funding for the partnership between GRF and the Kirsch Foundation: Catalyst for a Cure (CFC). The additional funds were used to establish and operate a centralized breeding facility for the development of a rodent model for glaucoma. The rodent model is initially providing animals to the CFC laboratories, but the establishment of such a hybrid mouse with glaucoma is also viewed as an important contribution to the greater glaucoma research community.
  • $100,000 for a one-year grant that provides supplemental funding for the partnership between GRF and the Kirsch Foundation that funds a collaborative research effort: Catalyst for a Cure (CFC). The additional funds will be used to expand the recently-established centralized breeding facility for the rodent model of glaucoma, as well as to restructure the flow of tissue, reagents, data and informatics based on the establishment of three additional core facilities: a histopathology core, a microarray core, and a genomics core.

Why we supported: The CFC partnership charges a group of researchers with the goal of finding a cure for glaucoma, one of the degenerative eye diseases that is of particular interest to the Kirsch Foundation. Expanding and establishing these additional core facilities will increase the efficiency in handling and analyzing the data generated.

Joint Steering Committee for Public Policy: $14,000
www.jscpp.org
The Joint Steering Committee for Public Policy (JSC) is a consortium of four medical membership organizations: The American Society for Cell Biology, the American Society for Biochemistry, the Genetics Society of America, and the Society for Neuroscience. The organizations formed the JSC because they realized that, 95% of the time, they agree on specific policy issues and that they could be more effective in presenting their positions if they coordinated efforts. This grant will purchase a license and first year's usage fee for "CapWiz," an online portal that is considered state-of-the-art for informing and activating grassroots groups around the country. CapWiz will allow JSC to more effectively activate its member base in support of legislation legalizing the use of human embryonic stem cells.
Why we supported: Support of JSC's member base activation complements our policy, advocacy and funding commitment to stem cell research and therapeutic cloning initiatives.

Political Reform and Global Theme Grants

Arms Control Association: $5,000
www.armscontrol.org
The Arms Control Association, founded in 1971, is a national, nonpartisan, membership organization dedicated to promoting public understanding of and support for effective arms control policies.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation strongly believes in nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation.

British American Security Information Council (BASIC): $5,000
www.basicint.org
BASIC is a progressive and independent analysis and advocacy organization that researches and provides a critical examination of global security issues, including nuclear policies, military strategies, armaments and disarmament. BASIC assists in the development of global security policies, policy-making and the assessment of policy priorities, and promotes public awareness and understanding of these policies and of policy-making in Europe and the U.S.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation provided this grant because BASIC engages in critical work on disarmament.

Business Leaders for Sensible Priorities: $1,000
www.sensiblepriorities.org
The mission of Business Leaders for Sensible Priorities (BLSP) is to increase funding to meet the needs of our children, and children around the world, (at no additional taxpayer expense) by reducing money spent on cold war era weapon systems and other Pentagon programs that are not needed in the post-Cold War world. This funding supports the Anti Star Wars ad campaign.
Why we supported: BLSP's efforts on nuclear disarmament are consistent with the Foundation's vision for the world. This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation: $5,000
www.armscontrolcenter.org
The Center for Arms Control & Non-Proliferation is among the nation's preeminent arms control organizations and focus on halting the spread of weapons of mass destruction, opposing a national missile defense system, cutting Pentagon waste and reducing excessive arms exports.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation provided this general operating support because the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation engages in critical work on disarmament.

Center for Defense Information: $5,000
www.cdi.org
The Center for Defense Information (CDI) is dedicated to strengthening security through: international cooperation; reduced reliance on unilateral military power to resolve conflict; reduced reliance on nuclear weapons; a transformed and reformed military establishment; and, prudent oversight of, and spending on, defense programs. This grant is for general operating support.
Why we supported: CDI's dedication to helping political leaders make educated choices about security matters is consistent with the Foundation's vision for the world.

Clean Elections Institute Action Fund: $25,000
www.azcleanactionfund.com
The Clean Elections Institute encourages participation in the electoral process and seeks to build confidence in democratic institutions.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Federation of American Scientists: $5,000
www.fas.org
Founded in 1945 by atomic scientists of the Manhattan Project, the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) is dedicated to the responsible use of science and technology. FAS brings a scientific perspective to the legislative arena through direct lobbying, expert testimony, media and grassroots work. FAS engages in analysis and public education on a broad range of science, technology, and public policy issues, including weapons nonproliferation and information technologies.
Why we supported: The Foundation is committed to achieving nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation.

Friends Committee on National Legislation: $5,000
www.fcnl.org
The Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) is a Quaker lobby in the public interest. FCNL seeks to bring the concerns, experiences and testimonies of the Religious Society of Friends to bear on policy decisions in the nation's capital. FCNL works with a nationwide network of people to advocate social and economic justice, peace, and good government.
Why we supported: FCNL's advocacy work in nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation is consistent with the Foundation's vision for the world.

Global Security Institute: $1,000
www.gsinstitute.org
The Global Security Institute (GSI), founded by deceased former U.S. Senator Alan Cranston, is committed to promoting a comprehensive vision of global security for our increasingly interdependent world and its evolving governing bodies. One of the organization's primary initiatives is the elimination of nuclear weapons. Through its work, GSI strives to persuade the U.S. government and other nuclear weapon states to honor their commitment under the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Institute for America's Future: $10,000
www.ourfuture.org
The Institute for America's Future (IAF) is a center of non-partisan research and education. Drawing on a network of scholars, activists and leaders across the country, IAF develops policy ideas, educational materials and outreach programs. IAF focuses on kitchen-table concerns such as economic security, retirement security, health and safety on the job, clean water and safe food. IAF provides a growing network of progressive writers, leaders and activists with timely facts, ideas, and sound arguments through an active web page and email network. This funding is for general operating support.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Natural Resources Defense Council: $5,000
www.nrdc.org
The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) uses law, science, and the support of more than 400,000 members nationwide to protect the planet's wildlife and wild places and to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all living things. This grant is for general operating support.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation provided this grant because the NRDC engages in important work on nuclear disarmament.

Peace and Security Funders Group: $5,000
www.peaceandsecurity.org
Peace and Security Funders Group (PSFG) is an unincorporated association of private foundations, public foundations, operating foundations, charitable trusts, other grantmaking programs, and individual philanthropists who make significant contributions in the peace and security field. It is a project of the Ploughshares Fund (www.ploughshares.org). The central purpose of PSFG is to enhance the effectiveness of the network of grantmakers supporting work in the area of peace and security through a variety of activities.
Why we supported: PSFG is the main organization through which funders in this field share information about the needs of nonprofit organizations that address peace and security issues and encourage others to join in providing funds to the field. The Kirsch Foundation is an active participant in PSFG and supports its efforts to ensure nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament in particular.

People for the American Way Foundation: $10,000
www.pfaw.org
The purpose of People for the American Way (PFAW) is to educate the American people and raise their level of understanding by reducing social tension and polarizations, encouraging community participation, fostering understanding among different segments of our society, and increasing the level and quality of public dialogue. PFAW is a premier source of vital information for policymakers, scholars and activists nationwide on the Religious Right movement and its political allies. It also engages in legal action as needed to protect or restore the rights and liberties of Americans. One of its current priorities is the re-enfranchisement of felons.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Physicians for Social Responsibility: $6,000
www.psr.org
Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR) represents more than 20,000 physicians, nurses, health care professionals, and concerned citizens devoted to nuclear disarmament, violence prevention and environmental health. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $1,000 to support the Utah ad campaign
  • $5,000 for general operating support

Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation recognizes the valuable contributions that PSR's membership makes in advocating disarmament and supports its efforts.

Ploughshares Fund: $125,000
www.ploughshares.org
The Ploughshares Fund is a public grantmaking foundation that supports initiatives for stopping the spread of weapons of war, from nuclear arms to landmines. With $3 million contributed annually by individuals and other foundations, Ploughshares Fund invests in a wide range of innovative and realistic programs, from scientific research to media, behind-the-scenes dialogue, grassroots organizing and lobbying. It has been called a "mutual fund for peace and security." This funding supports its "Nuclear Weapons Agenda for a Better World."
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation strongly believes in funding nonprofit organizations committed to nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation. Ploughshares Fund has great expertise about the individuals and organizations that are most effective worldwide in advancing disarmament and non-proliferation so we know that our funds will be invested wisely for the benefit of the field.

Public Campaign: $125,000
www.publiccampaign.org
Public Campaign is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to sweeping reform that aims to dramatically reduce the role of special interest money in America's elections and the influence of big contributors in American politics. It wants to accomplish this objective by offering a public financing option to candidates who do not accept private contributions. This grant provides general operating support for its strategic activities over the coming year.
Why we supported: Public Campaign has a sound strategic approach to its work, seasoned staff, and absolute dedication to changing the role of money in politics. It has been a Foundation grant recipient for several years and has been part of the effort to effect public financing in states ranging from Arizona to Massachusetts and from North Carolina to Maine. It continues to play a key role in both national and state activities to advance "clean money" elections.

Union of Concerned Scientists: $5,000
www.ucsusa.org
The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent, nonprofit alliance of 50,000 concerned citizens and scientists across the United States. The group augments rigorous scientific analysis with innovative thinking and committed citizen advocacy to build a cleaner, healthier environment and a safer world. The grant supports annual operations and was made in recognition of UCS's key work in the area of nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation recognizes the valuable contributions that UCS makes in advocating for disarmament.

United Nations Foundation: $1,000
www.unfoundation.org
The United Nations Foundation promotes a more peaceful, prosperous, and just world through the support of the United Nations and its Charter. Through its grantmaking and by building new and innovative public-private partnerships, the United Nations Foundation acts to meet the most pressing health, humanitarian, socioeconomic, and environmental challenges of the 21st century. This grant is in support of a new fund named in honor of a UN staff member killed in an Iraqi attack.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch. It is to help meet a challenge grant made to members of the Peace and Security Funders Group, of which the Foundation is a member.

Women's Action for New Directions (WAND): $5,000
www.wand.org
WAND's mission is to empower women to act politically to reduce violence and militarism, and redirect excessive military resources toward unmet human and environmental needs.
Why we supported: WAND is committed to the elimination of testing, production, sale and use of weapons of mass destruction, a key area of interest for the Foundation.

Silicon Valley Community Grants

Adolescent Counseling Services: $5,000
www.acs-teens.org
Founded in 1975, Adolescent Counseling Services (ACS) promotes healthy social and emotional development through counseling and education for adolescents, their families and their communities. ACS is a nonprofit agency which runs three programs: a group home called Caravan House, an On-Campus Counseling Program, and an Adolescent Substance Abuse Treatment Program.
Why we supported: This is a Director's Discretionary Grant recommended by Board member Bill Johnson.

American Leadership Forum Silicon Valley: $1,000
www.alfsv.org
The American Leadership Forum-Silicon Valley is a nonprofit organization "dedicated to joining and strengthening leaders to serve the public good," building on the strengths of diversity and promoting collaborative problem solving among community members. Through its programs for Fellows and Senior Fellows, ALF brings senior level leaders together from across sectors to build philanthropy, service and community in Silicon Valley.
Why we supported: The Foundation supports the Silicon Valley community and efforts that build bridges to address difficult community-wide problems.

American Musical Theatre of San Jose: $100,000
www.amtsj.org
American Musical Theatre of San Jose (AMTSJ), one of the area's most popular musical theatres, has performed in downtown San Jose for over 65 years. In addition to the full-scale productions and Musicals in Concert it has offered the Bay Area, AMTSJ presents a wide variety of education, training, accessibility and recognition programs. This grant is for 2004-2005 Season Sponsorship for its eight productions.
Why we supported: AMTSJ is one of the most highly regarded performing arts centers in Silicon Valley. This continued support helps AMTSJ to cover its general operating costs and represents the Kirsch family's interest in and commitment to the local arts, particularly musical theatre, community.

Bill Wilson Center: $2,500
www.billwilsoncenter.org
The mission of the Bill Wilson Center is to support and strengthen the community by serving youth and families through counseling, housing, education, and advocacy.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant to help the Center after a fire destroyed its facility on New Year's Eve 2003.

Bullis Purissima Elementary School Foundation: $50,000
http://www.bullischarterschool.com/foundation.asp
The Bullis-Purissima Elementary School Foundation supports public education, learning enrichment and extra-curricular activities for children and families in the Los Altos Hills community and surrounding areas. This funding supports the Bullis Charter School as it starts its first year of operation.
Why we supported: Steve and Michele are committed to supporting quality education in their community, particularly the model adopted by the Bullis Charter School.

Campus for Jewish Life: $1,000
www.campusforjewishlife.org
The Campus for Jewish Life (CJL) is a collaborative initiative founded in 2001 by the Albert L. Schultz Jewish Community Center in Palo Alto, the Jewish Home in San Francisco, the Jewish Community Federation and local community leaders. CJL's purpose is to strengthen and enhance Jewish community life by supporting development of a multi-purpose, intergenerational Jewish campus in Palo Alto.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant in memory of Jessica Saal, the daughter of our former Board member Harry Saal.

Castilleja School: $2,500
www.castilleja.org
Castilleja School, located in Palo Alto, California, educates women by fostering their intellectual, physical, creative, and emotional growth through an exemplary college preparatory experience within a diverse and supportive community. By blending tradition with thoughtful innovation, the curriculum encourages both individual achievement and collaborative learning. Castilleja's comprehensive program promotes the development of character, compassion, curiosity, and the capacity for effective leadership.
Why we supported: Steve and Michele are committed to supporting quality education in the community.

Children's Discovery Museum: $2,000
www.cdm.org
Located in San Jose, the Children's Discovery Museum is a learning and discovery center for children, families and schools, offering interactive exhibits and programs that span the arts, science, technology and the humanities. This funding supports the following grants:

  • $1,000 for the annual Legacy for Children Awards event
  • $1,000 for general operating support

Why we supported: These are discretionary grants recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Children's Health Council: $6,600
www.chconline.org
The Children's Health Council (CHC) has served the developmental needs of children and families in the Bay Area community for nearly 50 years, providing mental health services, special education and developmental services for children and adolescents. This grant provides support for the 2004 Summer Symphony, the organizations primary fundraising event.
Why we supported: Michele is a Board member of the Children's Health Council and this grant reflects her commitment to the well-being of children.

Commonwealth Club Silicon Valley: $2,500
http://www.commonwealthclub.org/siliconvalley.html
The Commonwealth Club of California is the nation's oldest and largest public affairs forum, bringing together its 15,000 members for over 400 annual events on topics ranging across politics, culture, society and the economy. The Commonwealth Club began hosting programs in Silicon Valley in the late 1980s to provide a convenient face-to-face forum for public discussion to the growing population of what has become one of the most influential regions of the United States. This funding supports the annual leadership award dinner honoring Jeff Skoll.
Why we supported: Jeff Skoll established a supporting foundation, the Skoll Foundation, within Community Foundation Silicon Valley, the same organization under which the Kirsch Foundation operates. The founders and staff members of each organization recognize and value the collegial relationship between the Skoll and Kirsch foundations. This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch in honor of Jeff Skoll and his philanthropy and vision.

Community Breast Health Project: $500
www.cbhp.org
The mission of the Community Breast Health Project (CBHP) is to improve the lives of people touched by breast cancer. CBHP acts as a clearinghouse for support information for breast cancer patients, provides volunteer opportunities for breast cancer survivors and friends dedicated to helping others with the disease, and serves as an educational resource and a community center for all who are concerned about breast cancer and breast health. The Community Breast Health Project is client-centered and committed to providing services free of charge.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Community Foundation Silicon Valley: $76,000
Community Foundation Silicon Valley (CFSV), one of the largest nonprofit community foundations in the U.S., makes grants to the Silicon Valley community, educates the public about public benefit corporations and Silicon Valley's needs, and enables citizens to solve local problems. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $25,000 for the 2003-2004 Partners in Philanthropy program
  • $15,000 for the 2003-2004 Partners in Philanthropy program, in honor of CFSV's 50th anniversary
  • $5,000 for the 2004 annual meeting
  • $1,000 for co-sponsorship of the Association of Fundraising Professionals' Philanthropy Day
  • $25,000 for the 2004-2005 Partners in Philanthropy program
  • $5,000 for the Silicon Valley Social Ventures (SV2) program

Why we supported: The Steven and Michele Kirsch Foundation is a supporting organization of CFSV. We believe it is critical to provide direct financial support to CFSV's grant and organizational activities in addition to our discretionary grantmaking in the local community.

Computer History Museum: $5,000
www.computerhistory.org
Established in 1996, The Computer History Museum is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of computing history. It is home to one of the largest collections of computing artifacts in the world, a collection comprising over 3,000 artifacts, 2,000 films and videotapes, 5,000 photographs, 2,000 linear feet of cataloged documentation and gigabytes of software. This funding supports the 2004 Capital Campaign.
Why We Supported: Steve Kirsch has been a Board member of The Computer History Museum and contributes to further demonstrate his commitment to the organization.

Foothill De Anza Community Colleges Foundation: $668,668
www.fhda.edu
The Foothill-De Anza Colleges Foundation encompasses Foothill College and DeAnza College, both located in Silicon Valley. This funding includes the follwoing grants:

  • $666,668 for the third and final payment of a capital grant pledge for the Kirsch Center for Environmental Studies
  • $1,000 for the Krause Center for Innovation
  • $1,000 for the Chancellor's Circle

Why we supported: Steve and Michele are committed to educational issues in the Silicon Valley community.

Fresh Lifelines for Youth (FLY): $1,000
www.flyprogram.org
FLY's mission is to educate disadvantaged and at-risk youth to help them become more responsible, accountable, and capable of making healthier lifestyle choices.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Girl Scouts of Santa Clara County: $1,000
www.girlscoutsofscc.org
The Girl Scouts of Santa Clara County serves over 18,000 girls with the support of 5,000 volunteers. The mission of the Girl Scouts of Santa Clara County is to provide girls and young women, ages 5-17, with the life skills that will enable them to reach their full potential. Programs empower young women to make life-enhancing decisions, develop self-esteem, and be active contributing members of our community. This funding is for general operating support.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Happy Hollow Park and Zoo: $500
www.happyhollowparkandzoo.org
Happy Hollow Park and Zoo in San Jose, California, participates in the conservation and propagation of rare and endangered species while providing a peaceful, creative and safe place for children of all ages.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

The Health Trust: $1,000
www.healthtrust.org
The Health Trust's vision is to be the leading venture capitalist for funding innovative nonprofit health prevention services and programs within the Santa Clara County (Silicon Valley). Its objective is to maximize the health of the people of the area by expanding access to health and wellness programs. This grant will support the Women's Health Fund.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Hidden Villa: $7,000
www.hiddenvilla.org
Hidden Villa, a farm and wilderness preserve in the Los Altos Hills, provides unique programs teaching environmental and multicultural awareness. From farm tours to mushroom hikes, this organization encourages visitors to discover their connection to the earth and to each other. This funding included the following grants:

  • $1,000 for annual support
  • $1,000 for the Judith Steiner Legacy Fund for Multicultural Education
  • $5,000 for the annual Duveneck Humanitarian Awards Dinner

Why we supported: These grants reflect the Foundation's commitment to environmental issues, its support of the local community and its focus on leveraging its own resources.

Humane Society Silicon Valley: $500
www.hssv.org
The Humane Society Silicon Valley's mission is to promote respect for all animal life in our community through direct care and education. Its vision is to ensure that every animal has a safe and appropriate home. This funding supports its 2004 adoption campaign.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Junior Achievement of Santa Clara County, Inc.: $1,000
www.jascc.org
Junior Achievement's sole purpose is to enhance school curriculum through volunteers helping in the classrooms, on a continuous basis, with a defined curriculum. Junior Achievement's Business Hall of Fame honors five Santa Clara Valley's business leaders each year. The laureates are selected by an independent selection committee. The Hall of Fame is also the organization's key fund-raising event of the year. This funding supports the 2004 Hall of Fame event.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch in recognition of the current group of laureates.

Junior League of Palo Alto Mid-Peninsula: $6,000
www.thejuniorleague.org
The Junior League is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $5,000 for the 2004 Holiday Boutique
  • $1,000 for the endowment

Why we supported: Michele Kirsch is an active member of the Palo Alto – Mid Peninsula chapter of the Junior League.

Los Altos Community Foundation: $1,000
www.losaltoscf.org
Los Altos Community Foundation serves Los Altos, Los Altos Hills and the surrounding area by promoting community building -- those activities and facilities that give the community its favorable character, making it a desirable place to live and work. Los Altos Community Foundation supports the community by making grants for local programs, building an endowment for the future, and managing philanthropic funding for other organizations and individuals.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Los Altos Town Crier: $5,000
www.latc.com
The Los Altos Town Crier is a weekly newspaper serving the Los Altos, California, community. This grant supports the publication's annual Holiday Fund, which raises funds to assist needy families in the local community.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve and Michele Kirsch.

Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health: $10,000
www.lpfch.org
Lucile Packard Children's Hospital is an internationally recognized pediatric and obstetric health care organization dedicated to excellence in patient care, education and research. This funding is for the Children's Circle of Care.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch to further her interests in the welfare of our community's children.

Mineta Transportation Institute: $500
http://transweb.sjsu.edu/
The Norman Y. Mineta International Institute (MTI) for Surface Transportation Policy Studies was created by Congress through the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act of 1991 (ISTEA). MTI's policy emphasis and location in the College of Business at San Jose State University make it unique among the 33 U.S. university transportation centers. It focuses on international surface transportation policy issues, with three primary responsibilities: research, education and technology transfer. This grant is for general operating support.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Mountain View High School: $3,000
http://mvhs.ca.campusgrid.net/home
Mountain View High School is one of two comprehensive high schools in the Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District. This funding supports the Robotics Team for the national competition in Atlanta, Georgia, sponsored by FIRST. The team won the regional competition, which led to the opportunity to participate in the national event.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Music for Minors: $250
www.mfm.org
Music For Minors is a non-profit organization founded in 1975, dedicated to nurturing in children a life long love of music. Its goal is to develop a musical sensitivity and literacy in children, and to enhance their enjoyment and appreciation of music through participation in musical experiences.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence: $1,000
www.nextdoor.org
Next Door is a non-profit, multi-cultural agency dedicated to providing proactive and progressive solutions to domestic violence. Serving Santa Clara County, this organization offers services including counseling and emergency shelter to individuals and their children in abusive relationships. Next Door is committed to reducing the incidence and recurrence of domestic violence through education and advocacy. This funding supports the annual Domestic Violence Conference.
Why we supported: Michele Kirsch recommended this grant.

Northern California Innocence Project: $2,500
http://www.scu.edu/law/socialjustice/ncip_home.html
Since 1989, more than 115 wrongfully convicted people have been freed from prisons around the United States by the work of the Innocence Network — a national partnership among law schools, journalists and private attorneys. This work has been made possible by ever-increasing advances in DNA technology, which have enabled lawyers and scientists to demonstrate innocence. The Northern California Innocence Project (NCIP):

  • Identifies and provides legal resources to exonerate wrongly convicted inmates, convicted in California, who are able to demonstrate factual innocence.
  • Advocates legal reforms to prevent wrongful convictions in the future.

Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Opportunities Industrialization Center West (OICW): $1,000
http://www.oicw.org
OICW is a non-profit community-based job-training center on the Menlo Park-East Palo Alto border. OICW provides accredited job training, counseling and placement services, teen programs, evening and weekend courses, and child development centers for nearly 3,500 people per year. This grant is for general operating support.
Why we supported: Steve Kirsch recommended this grant given his commitment to the Silicon Valley community and his recognition of the importance of OICW's job-training programs.

Peninsula Stroke Association: $500
www.psastroke.org
The Peninsula Stroke Association (PSA) was established as a nonprofit organization in 1999. The mission of the PSA is to help reduce the devastating effects of stroke and improve community wellness.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

People Acting in Community Together (PACT): $1,000
www.pactsj.org
People Acting in Community Together (PACT) awakens people to their greatest resource – each other – and teaches them how to improve the education, health, employment and safety of their families and their neighborhoods.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve and Michele Kirsch.

Rebuilding Together Peninsula: $1,500
www.rebuildingtogetherpeninsula.org
Rebuilding Together is a non-denominational organization that builds volunteer partnerships to rehabilitate community facilities and homes so that low-income individuals may live in warmth, safety and independence. The recipients are low-income homeowners and non-profits that serve low-income communities; the volunteers cross all ethnic, gender, age, and economic and geographic boundaries. This grant supports the Dreams Happen fundraiser.
Why we supported: Rebuilding Together makes very effective use of volunteers and collaborative relationships among individuals, businesses and nonprofit organizations. Its effort to renovate current community facilities and to repair homes in a very crowded and expensive Silicon Valley helps keep community organizations and low-income individuals part of the community's fabric.

Resource Area For Teachers (RAFT): $2,600
www.raft.net
Resource Area for Teachers (RAFT), a nonprofit service organization, collects a wide variety of manufacturing by-products, over-runs and other scrap material and redistributes them to schools and community groups through teachers who visit the RAFT Center. At RAFT, teachers learn how to use these materials creatively to demonstrate math, science and other subjects. RAFT, through its Technology Center, also offers teachers workshops on the use of computers as teaching aids. RAFT offers companies an on-site assessment that identifies reusable items and arranges for their pickup. This funding includes the following grants:

  • $500 for the 2004 Back to School Drive.
  • $1,100 for the 2004 Showcase of Creativity Dinner
  • $1,000 for annual support

Why we supported: Steve and Michele Kirsch are committed to supporting quality education in the community.

Santa Clara University, School of Law: $1,000
www.scu.edu/SCU/Departments/Law
The Santa Clara University School of Law is dedicated to the preparation of students to assume leadership roles in society through an education that stresses moral and spiritual as well as intellectual and aesthetic values, seeks to answer not only "what is" but "what should be" and encourages faith and the promotion of justice. This grant is for the annual fund.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties: $1,000
www.2ndharvest.net
Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties is a private non-profit organization that collects and distributes more than 26 million pounds of food each year to low-income children, adults and seniors. The Food Bank currently serves an average of 143,300 individuals each month; nearly 40% are children.
Why we supported: Steve and Michele Kirsch are aware of the increased needs of local food banks and recognize the importance of these "safety net" organizations.

Silicon Valley Campaign for Legal Services: $2,500
www.svcls.org
The Silicon Valley Campaign For Legal Services is an annual campaign program dedicated to raising funds to augment current contributions to Silicon Valley legal service agencies that provide legal services to Silicon Valley's disadvantaged residents. The purpose of these funds is to increase the effectiveness and ability of the agencies to assist disadvantaged residents.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Silicon Valley Women's Caucus: $1,000
The purpose of the Silicon Valley Women's Caucus is to mentor and enable women in the Valley to reach leadership positions, specifically in the political arena, and to support them in being effective.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant.

The Tech Museum of Innovation: $12,250
www.thetech.org
Located in San Jose, The Tech Museum of Innovation is an educational resource established to engage people of all ages and backgrounds in exploring and experiencing technologies affecting their lives, and to inspire young people to become innovators in the technologies of the future. This funding is for the following grants:

  • $1,500 for the 2004 GIZMO WYSIWYG event
  • $750 for the 2004 Awards Gala
  • $10,000 for the annual fund for education

Why we supported: Steve Kirsch is a member of The Tech's Board of Directors and both Steve and Michele Kirsch continue to support the museum.

Theatreworks: $1,000
www.theatreworks.org
TheatreWorks explores the human spirit through innovative plays and musicals that define the culturally diverse Northern California community. TheatreWorks celebrates individual heritages while advancing an emerging culture woven from many common experiences and beliefs.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

United Way Silicon Valley: $2,500
www.uwsv.org
United Way Silicon Valley (UWSV) supports the community's most vital health and human care needs by distributing raised funds to over 100 nonprofit agencies in Silicon Valley. This funding is for annual support.
Why we supported: Steve and Michele Kirsch recognize gaps that still exist and they continue to assist the community during this difficult time.

YMCA of the Mid-Peninsula, El Camino Branch: $6,750
www.ymcamidpen.org
The YMCA of the Mid-Peninsula is an association of people unified by the common purpose of strengthening and enriching the spiritual, mental and physical well-being of all people and to improving the human conditions within the changing patterns of family and community life. This funding provides program subsidies for Parenting Classes and Girl Support Groups.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Discretionary Grants

American Cancer Society
www.cancer.org
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives, and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy, and service.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant in memory of Edna Parad.

American Diabetes Association
www.diabetes.org
The American Diabetes Association is the nation's leading nonprofit health organization providing diabetes research, information and advocacy. Founded in 1940, the American Diabetes Association conducts programs in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, reaching more than 800 communities. The mission of the organization is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

American Philosophical Society
www.amphilsoc.org
Benjamin Franklin founded the American Philosophical Society, the oldest learned society in the United States, in 1743 for the purpose of "promoting useful knowledge." The organization supports research, discovery and education through grants and fellowships, lectures, publications, prizes and exhibitions. This grant is for the Library of the Society.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by former Scientific Advisory Board co-Chair Dr. Baruch Blumberg.

Arthritis Foundation
www.arthritisfoundation.org
The Arthritis Foundation is the only national not-for-profit organization that supports the more than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions with advocacy, programs, services and research.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence
www.bradycenter.org
The Brady Center works to reform the gun industry and educate the public about gun violence through litigation and grassroots mobilization, and works to enact and enforce sensible regulations to reduce gun violence including regulations governing the gun industry.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

California First Amendment Coalition
www.cfac.org
California First Amendment Coalition's (CFAC) primary purpose has been the advancement of the public's right to participate in government and obtain government records by working to improve compliance with state and federal laws. CFAC's mission comprises communication about developments in open government law; education of journalists, the public and government officials about their respective rights and obligations under open government law; litigation when necessary to force compliance with open government standards; and sponsorship of legislation where necessary and consistent with CFAC's purposes.
Why we supported: This is a Director's Discretionary Grant recommended by Board member Bill Johnson.

Camp Stevens
www.campstevens.org
The Mission of Camp Stevens is to help individuals of all ages deepen their sense of reverence and respect for themselves, and their fellow human beings, the creation, and God. It also seeks to be a peaceful 'place apart' for nurturing, planning, reflection, exchange of ideas, and sharing in Christian community.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by former Scientific Advisory Board Chair Dr. Gordon Gill.

Center for Investigative Reporting
www.muckraker.org
The Center for Investigative Reporting (CIR) is an independent news organization that strengthens democracy by exposing injustice and abuse of power. To achieve this, CIR:

  • Investigates critical, underreported issues
  • Produces compelling, in-depth stories for print, broadcast and Internet news outlets
  • Provides its reporting to citizens and decision makers so they can take informed action

Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

The Commonwealth Club of California
www.commonwealthclub.org
The Commonwealth Club of California is the nation's oldest and largest public affairs forum, bringing together its 15,000 members for over 400 annual events on topics ranging across politics, culture, society and the economy. This nonprofit, non-partisan, educational organization relies on the support of its membership, the Business Council and foundation grants to continue its role in fostering open public discussion in the San Francisco Bay Area and throughout the nation via radio, Internet and television. This grant supports the Crisis Response Fund.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve and Michele Kirsch.

Diabetes Center at University of California, San Francisco
http://www.diabetes2.ucsf.edu/
The Diabetes Center at UCSF has one singular mission: to bring lasting improvements in quality of life to type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients in the Western United States. This goal unites the clinical, education and research arms of the Diabetes Center into a comprehensive program that is unique among diabetes facilities.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Exploratorium
www.exploratorium.edu
The Exploratorium is a collage of 650 science, art and human perception exhibits and is a leader in the movement to promote museums as educational centers. It is housed within the walls of San Francisco's Palace of Fine Arts.
Why we supported: Continuing their commitment to education, Steve and Michele Kirsch donated to the Annual Fund.

Fair Test
www.fairtest.org
The National Center for Fair & Open Testing (FairTest) is an advocacy organization working to end the abuses, misuses and flaws of standardized testing and ensure that evaluation of students and workers is fair, open, and educationally sound.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Freedom of Expression Foundation
The Freedom of Expression Foundation's mission is to stimulate interdisciplinary study of First Amendment issues. Specifically, the organization seeks to promote research into and understanding of the origins, evolution, and interpretation of the First Amendment. The group also produces research on such issues as freedom of information, copyright law, academic freedom, and the application of the First Amendment to such new technologies as cable, computer, telephone, television, and satellite transmission.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Global Fund for Children
www.globalfundforchildren.org
The Global Fund for Children enriches the lives of children through grants that support non-formal education programs focusing primarily on the needs of street children, child laborers, AIDS orphans, girls, and other vulnerable groups of children, and through community education and outreach, particularly its publishing and free book distribution efforts.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Global Fund for Women
www.globalfundforwomen.org
The Global Fund for Women, an international network of women and men committed to a world of equality and social justice, advocates for and defends women's human rights by making grants to support women's groups around the world. The Global Fund makes grants to seed, support, and strengthen women's rights groups based outside the United States working to address human rights issues that include:

  • Ending Gender-Based Violence & Building Peace
  • Ensuring Economic and Environmental Justice
  • Advancing Health and Sexual & Reproductive Rights
  • Expanding Civic & Political Participation
  • Increasing Access to Education
  • Fostering Social Change Philanthropy

Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

John Burton Foundation for Children Without Homes
The John Burton Foundation for Children Without Homes was founded in 2004 by California State Senator John Burton to continue his public service work to relieve homelessness in the state with the highest number of homeless in the country.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
www.mit.edu
Massachusetts Institute of Technology is one of the world's most recognized universities and a leader in scientific research. This grant is for annual support.
Why we supported: Steve Kirsch is a graduate of MIT and maintains a strong relationship with his alma mater.

Mills College
www.mills.edu
Located in Oakland, California, Mills College is a private liberal arts school with a long-standing reputation for supporting the development and education of women. The undergraduate student body is composed of women of all ages and backgrounds while the graduate student body is co-ed. This funding includes support for the Kirsch Building at the Education Complex on campus as well as the Alumnae Fund.
Why we supported: Michele Kirsch is a graduate of Mills College. This is the final year of a five-year, $1,000,000 commitment to the Education Complex.

NARAL Pro Choice America Foundation
www.naral.org
NARAL Pro-Choice America Foundation's goals are to create better access to more effective contraceptive options and better access to other kinds of reproductive health care and information. This funding includes support for the Power of Choice luncheon as well as annual support.
Why we supported: These are discretionary grants recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Steadman-Hawkins Research Foundation
www.shsmf.org
The Steadman-Hawkins Research Foundation, formerly the Steadman-Hawkins Sports Medicine Foundation, is dedicated to keeping people of all ages physically active through orthopaedic research and education in the areas of arthritis, healing, rehabilitation and injury prevention. This grant supports this critical research.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

That Man May See
http://ucsfeye.net/tmms.shtml
That Man May See, Inc., (TMMS) is the official support foundation for the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of California, San Francisco. Founded in 1971, TMMS has raised over $35 million in support of vision research and care at UCSF.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve and Michele Kirsch in memory of their friend, former Chair of TMMS, Tom Boyden.

World Affairs Council of Northern California
www.wacsf.org
The World Affairs Council is the largest international affairs organization dedicated to engaging discussions with political and business leaders from all over the world. This grant helps to underwrite the Global Philanthropy Forum scheduled to take place in 2005. The Forum brings together foundation leaders, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), individual donors and agents of change to learn about opportunities for international philanthropy.
Why we supported: This discretionary grant represents continued support for the Forum and reflects the Foundation's commitment to encouraging philanthropy and supporting the philanthropic efforts of others.


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