Kirsch Foundation 2006 Grants Awarded

In 2006, we distributed 119 grants totaling $584,991 to organizations in the following categories (number of grants and total grant money by category provided):

California Environmental Rights Alliance: $10,000
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 and the California Air Resources Board to develop and affect policies to reduce mobile source air pollution in California.
Why we supported: The environmental justice perspective has historically been left out of clean air considerations; CERA is the only organization dedicated to representing these interests at the state agency level. CERA is a prior grant recipient.

California League of Conservation Voters: $3,000
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:

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

California League of Conservation Voters Education Fund: $5,500
www.clcveducationfund.org
Established in 1996, the CLCV Education Fund (Ed Fund) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, community-based advocacy organization that works to empower people with the political information and leadership skills they need to improve the health of their communities and the environment. It is the 501(c)3 arm of the California League of Conservation Voters, a 501(c)4 organization. Two grants totaling $5,500 support the Central Valley Air Quality (CVAQ) Coalition’s 3rd annual Action Day in 2006.
Why we supported: The CVAQ Action Day provides an opportunity for Valley residents to make their concerns heard in Sacramento. The Ed Fund is a prior grant recipient.

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

Californians for Pesticide Reform: $27,500
www.pesticidereform.org
Founded in 1996, Californians for Pesticide Reform's (CPR) mission is to improve and protect public health, sustainable agriculture, and environmental quality by building a movement across California that changes statewide pesticide policies and practices. This funding includes the following grants:

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. CPR is a prior grant recipient.

Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment: $27,500
www.crpe-ej.org
For over 15 years, the Center on Race, Poverty & the Environment (CRPE) has worked to build strong environmental leaders in poor rural communities. Three grants, one $2,500 grant for Fiscal Year 2006 and two grants totaling $25,000 for Fiscal Year 2007, support CRPE’s San Joaquin Valley Air Quality Campaign, which combines grassroots organizing and advocacy with litigation.
Why we supported: The Center has extensive experience in 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. CRPE is a prior grant recipient.

Conservation International: $2,000
www.conservation.org
Conservation International's mission is to conserve the Earth's living natural heritage, our global biodiversity, and to demonstrate that human societies are able to live harmoniously with nature. This funding provides general operating support.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Earthjustice: $20,000
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 supports Earthjustice's San Joaquin Valley Air Quality Campaign, which includes air quality litigation and advocacy at the regional and federal level.
Why we supported: Litigation is a key tool in ensuring the implementation of strict clean air programs in California. Earthjustice has successfully represented numerous clients, both in the San Joaquin Valley and statewide. Earthjustice is a prior grantee.

Environmental Defense: $20,000
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 supports ED’s efforts to ensure sound Indirect Source Rule (ISR) implementation at the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District.
Why we supported: The San Joaquin Valley is expected to lead California in population growth and development. Without strong ISR rules in place, this growth will generate considerable air pollution increases in a region already ranked first in the nation for ozone violations. ED is a prior grant recipient.

Environmental Grantmakers Association: $4,000
www.ega.org
The Environmental Grantmakers Association (EGA), a project of the Rockefeller Family Fund, was formed in 1987, and supports member organizations in grantmaking that protects the environment and its inhabitants. This funding includes the following grants:

Why we supported: The EGA Annual Retreat is one of the only events to cut across special interests within the broad environmental philanthropic community. It works to build a collective movement toward a healthier planet and systems upon which we depend. Given the Foundation's commitment to the San Joaquin Valley, the opportunity to expose other grantmakers to air quality issues was determined to be very beneficial.

Environmental Integrity Project: $20,000
www.environmentalintegrity.org
The Environmental Integrity Project (EIP) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization established in March 2002 to advocate for more effective enforcement of federal environmental laws. This grant supports a campaign to educate the public and decision-makers in California about the air quality-related health hazards associated with animal factory farms, (or confined animal feeding operations).
Why we supported: Animal factory farms are a significant contributor to the San Joaquin Valley’s toxic air pollution mix. This grant was contingent on EIP raising matching funds, which EIP was unable to do.

Fresno-Madera Medical Society: $600
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 travel costs for an environmental justice speaker at an air quality and health symposium scheduled for mid-October 2006, in Fresno, California.
Why we supported: Ensuring the environmental justice perspective is present in all discussions of air quality in the San Joaquin Valley is crucial in supporting the strongest possible health and environmental standards.

Fresno Metro Ministry: $2,500
www.fresnometroministry.org
Founded in 1970, Fresno Metro Ministry (Metro) works to create a more respectful, compassionate and inclusive community that promotes social and economic justice. This grant will support Metro’s Environmental Health program.
Why we supported: Metro has been a leading Valley-based entity advocating for clean air legislation, and continues to be a leader in regional air quality efforts. Metro is a prior grant recipient.

League of Conservation Voters: $5,000
www.lcv.org
The League of Conservation Voters (LCV) is the independent political voice for the environment. To secure the environmental future of our planet, LCV’s mission is to advocate for sound environmental policies and to elect pro-environmental candidates who will adopt and implement such policies. This grant is for general operating support.
Why we supported: This grant was recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Merced/Mariposa County Asthma Coalition: $18,200
www.mmcac.com
Founded in 1997 as a grassroots organization by a group of local healthcare providers, the Merced/Mariposa County Asthma Coalition (MMCAC) seeks to control asthma through awareness and education. This grant supports MMCAC efforts to reduce air pollution in the San Joaquin Valley by ensuring that the asthma-related perspective is taken into account at all air quality-related legislative and regulatory hearings in the San Joaquin Valley.
Why we supported: Healthcare providers in the Valley are confronted by the consequences of poor air quality daily; ensuring their perspective is heard is critical in securing air quality progress.

Natural Resources Defense Council: $10,000
www.nrdc.org
For over 35 years, the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has used law, science, and the support of more than 1.2 million members and online activists to protect the planet's wildlife and wild places, and to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all living things. This grant supports NRDC’s California Dump Dirty Diesel Campaign, which currently seeks to reduce diesel emissions from California’s goods movement system.
Why we supported: Goods movement in California is a major contributor to air pollution. NRDC is a prior grant recipient.

The Sierra Club: $20,000
www.sierraclub.org
Founded in 1892, The Sierra Club works to protect our communities and the planet. The Club is America’s oldest and largest grassroots environmental organization. This grant will support The Sierra Club’s Campaign to Break California’s Oil Addiction, which is currently working to turn the tide of public opinion against a continued dependency on the oil industry, reduce air pollution from mobile and other petroleum burning sources, and to create jobs through the development of alternative energy sources in the San Joaquin Valley.
Why we supported: Valley residents suffer heavily from California’s current energy mix; this region is where the public-health benefits of breaking the “oil addiction” would be most dramatic.

Southeast Asian Institute for Advancement: $14,400
www.sa-institute.org
Founded in February 2004, the Southeast Asian Institute for Advancement (SAIFA) seeks to promote economic and social justice for the Southeast Asian community in the San Joaquin Valley through leadership training, education, and civic participation. This grant will support SAIFA’s Southeast Asian Education Project, which will conduct educational outreach to the Southeast Asian population in the Valley as it has not adequately been informed on issues related to air quality. It will also enable SAIFA to represent and engage the Southeast Asian community on air quality improvement efforts.
Why we supported: As the second largest minority group in the Valley, it is imperative that the Southeast Asian population is educated and engaged in air quality efforts. SAIFA is a prior grantee.

Union of Concerned Scientists: $20,000
www.ucsusa.org
The 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 grant supports UCS’s work to ensure continued progress towards diesel vehicle emission reductions in California.
Why we supported: UCS is one of the pre-eminent organizations in California spearheading the push for reducing mobile source pollution, a major objective of the Kirsch Foundation, and has proven itself effective over the years. UCS is a prior grant recipient.

World Resources Institute: $1,000
www.wri.org
World Resources Institute (WRI) is an environmental think-tank that provides information, ideas, and solutions to global environmental problems. Its mission is to move human society to live in ways that protect the Earth's environment for current and future generations.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch, in honor of WRI's 25th anniversary.

20/20 Vision: $3,571.50
www.2020vision.org
20/20 Vision gives citizens the information and tools they need to get involved on important issues such as reducing air pollution from cars and power plants, keeping dangerous pesticides out of our food, limiting nuclear arms and making our country more secure.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation provided this grant because 20/20 Vision engages in critical grassroots work on disarmament. 20/20 Vision is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Alliance for Nuclear Accountability: $3,571.50
www.ananuclear.org
The Alliance for Nuclear Accountability (ANA) is a network of more than 30 local, regional and national peace and environmental groups representing the concerns of communities in the shadows of the U.S. nuclear weapons sites and radioactive waste dumps.
Why we supported: The ANA has been successful coordinating with local and national organizations concerned with nuclear weapons related issues. It is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Arms Control Association: $3,571.50
www.armscontrol.org
The Arms Control Association (ACA), 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. ACA is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

British American Security Information Council: $3,571.50
www.basicint.org
The British American Security Information Council (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. It is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Business Leaders for Sensible Priorities: $750
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 the Pentagon for Cold War weapons systems no longer needed to protect America. This funding includes the following grants:

$250 to support the Common Sense Budget Act advertisement campaign.
$500 to support an ad calling for financial accountability on the part of the U.S. Secretary of Defense.

Why we supported: BLSP's efforts on political reform are consistent with the Foundation's vision for the world. This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Council for a Livable World: $3,571.50
www.clw.org
Since its founding in 1962, the goal of Council for a Livable World (CLW) has been to warn the public and Congress of the threat of nuclear war and lead the way to rational arms control and nuclear disarmament. The Council continues to provide Senators and Members of Congress with sophisticated technical and scientific information that helps them make intelligent decisions about weapons of mass destruction – nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, nuclear non-proliferation and other national security issues.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation provided this general operating support because CLW engages in critical work on disarmament. CLW is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Earth Day Network: $5,000
www.earthday.net
Earth Day Network (EDN) is a driving force steering environmental awareness around the world. Its mission is to broaden the environmental movement worldwide and to educate and mobilize people, governments, and corporations to take responsibility for a clean and healthy environment. EDN’s international network reaches over 12,000 organizations in 174 countries. This grant supports the 2006 Earth Day Conference in Kiev, which is devoted to considering the issue of nuclear power as an energy source.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Friends Committee on National Legislation: $3,571.50
www.fcnl.org
The Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) is a Quaker lobby in the public interest, and the largest peace lobby in Washington, DC. 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. It is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Fund for Peace Initiatives: $5,000
www.ffpi.org
The Fund for Peace Initiatives (FFPI) supports local, national and global actions, ideas and partnerships centered on building peace and security. FFPI seeks to represent the San Francisco Bay Area, and channel its vast resources toward peace initiatives, thereby strengthening the community as a "model of excellence" in working toward peace and security. FFPI facilitates donor requests, strengthens peace and security organizations, and develops a broad network of local, national and global peace-oriented organizations.
Why we supported: FFPI’s strategic investment in the field of peace and security is consistent with the Foundation's vision for the world.

Global Green USA: $3,571.50
www.globalgreen.org
Global Green USA works with governments, industry and individuals to create a global value shift toward a sustainable and secure future. Global Green USA is addressing three great challenges facing humanity: climate change, weapons of mass destruction, and the need for clean water.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation recognizes the valuable contributions that Global Green USA makes through its work on weapons of mass destruction. Global Green USA is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Global Security Institute: $3,571.50
www.gsinstitute.org
The Global Security Institute (GSI) is dedicated to strengthening international cooperation and security based on the rule of law with a particular focus on nuclear arms control, non-proliferation and disarmament. GSI was founded by Senator Alan Cranston whose insight that nuclear weapons are impractical, unacceptably risky, and unworthy of civilization continues to inspire GSI's efforts to contribute to a safer world.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation strongly believes in nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation. GSI is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Institute for America’s Future: $3,500
www.ourfuture.org/institute
Institute for America’s Future works to revitalize a progressive agenda by engaging citizens, activists and political leaders in a debate about the country and its direction. This funding includes the following grants:

$2,500 for general operating support
$1,000 in honor of Gloria Totten, Executive Director of Progressive Majority and recipient of the 2006 America’s Future Progressive Champion Award

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

Nuclear Age Peace Foundation: $3,571.50
www.wagingpeace.org
The Nuclear Age Peace Foundation initiates and supports worldwide efforts to abolish nuclear weapons, to strengthen international law and institutions, and to inspire and empower a new generation of peace leaders. Founded in 1982, the Foundation is comprised of individuals and organizations worldwide who realize the imperative for peace in the Nuclear Age. The Nuclear Age Peace Foundation is a nonprofit, non-partisan international education and advocacy organization. It has consultative status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council and is recognized by the UN as a Peace Messenger Organization.
Why we supported: The Nuclear Age Peace Foundation’s advocacy work in nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation is consistent with the Foundation's vision for the world. It is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Peace Action: $3,571.50
www.peace-action.org
As the nation's largest grassroots peace group, for nearly fifty years Peace Action has worked for an environment where all are free from violence and war. It is working to promote a new US foreign policy that is based on peaceful support for human rights and democracy, reducing the threat from weapons of mass destruction, and cooperation with the world community.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation provided this grant because Peace Action engages in critical grassroots work on disarmament. It is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Peace and Security Funders Group: $2,500
www.peaceandsecurity.org
The Peace and Security Funders Group (PSFG) is an 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 special 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 particularly supports its efforts to ensure nuclear nonproliferation and disarmament.

People for the American Way: $5,000
www.pfaw.org
People for the American Way (PFAW) is an advocate for the values and institutions that sustain a diverse democratic society. Its purpose 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 engages in legal action as needed to protect or restore the rights and liberties of Americans. This grant is for a campaign to raise issues about Judge Samuel Alito’s nomination to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

People For the American Way Foundation: $5,000
www.pfaw.org
People For the American Way Foundation (PWAWF) is a premier source of vital information for policymakers, scholars and activists nationwide about the radical right movement and its political allies. They also engage in legal action as needed to protect or restore the rights and liberties of Americans. PFAWF is committed to countering the forces of social discord and fragmentation with an affirmation of “the American Way:” respect for diversity; freedom of thought, expression, and religion; equal justice; and a sense of community. This grant provides general operating support.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Physicians for Social Responsibility: $3,571.50
www.psr.org
Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR) represents more than 25,000 medical and health professionals, as well as concerned citizens devoted to nuclear disarmament, violence prevention and environmental health. Its goals are to assert a strong medical voice for the prevention of nuclear war, against the development and use of nuclear weapons, and for a reduction in the role of armed force in US foreign and security policy, emphasizing alternative strategies for conflict resolution, including increased diplomacy and the rule of law; and to slow, stop and reverse global warming and toxic degradation of the environment.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation recognizes the valuable contributions that PSR's membership makes in advocating disarmament and supports its efforts. PSR is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Ploughshares Fund: $50,000
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 $4 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 grants that address nuclear threats.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation believes in funding nonprofit organizations committed to nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation. Ploughshares Fund has substantial expertise about the individuals and organizations that are most effective worldwide in advancing disarmament and nonproliferation so we know that our funds will be invested wisely for the benefit of the field.

Taxpayers for Common Sense: $3,571.50
www.taxpayer.net
Taxpayers for Common Sense (TCS) is an independent voice for American taxpayers. TCS is dedicated to cutting wasteful government spending and subsidies in order to achieve a responsible and efficient government that lives within its means.
Why we supported: TCS works with elected officials from both major political parties, the media, and grassroots groups on various issues including national security. It is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Union of Concerned Scientists: $3,571.50
www.ucsusa.org
The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) is an independent, nonprofit alliance of over 200,000 concerned citizens and scientists across the United States. The group combines independent scientific research and citizen action to develop innovative, practical solutions and to secure responsible changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices.
Why we supported: The Kirsch Foundation recognizes the valuable contributions that UCS makes in advocating for disarmament. UCS is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Women’s Action for New Directions: $3,571.50
www.wand.org
The mission of Women’s Action for New Directions (WAND) 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. It is one of the 14 members of the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative, which was founded and is jointly underwritten by the Kirsch Foundation and the Ploughshares Fund.

Silicon Valley Community Grants

American Musical Theatre of San Jose: $25,000
www.amtsj.org
American Musical Theatre of San Jose (AMTSJ) is one of the oldest musical theatre companies in the nation. It has performed in downtown San Jose for over 70 years. In addition to the full-scale productions it has offered the Bay Area, AMTSJ presents a wide variety of education, training, accessibility and recognition programs. This grant is for general operating support.
Why we supported: AMTSJ is a highly regarded performing arts center in Silicon Valley. This continued support helps AMTSJ to cover its general operating and special event costs and represents the Kirsch family's interest in and commitment to the local arts, particularly musical theatre, and community.

Bullis-Purissima Elementary School Foundation: $31,040
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 includes the following grants:

$1,040 for the 2006 Mardi Gras event
$25,000 for general operating support
$5,000 for the Spring Auction

Why we supported: Steve and Michele are committed to supporting quality education in their community, particularly the model adopted by the Bullis Charter School.

Castilleja School: $5,000
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. This funding is for general operating support.
Why we supported: The Kirsches are committed to supporting quality education in their community.

Children's Health Council: $23,000
www.chconline.org
Founded in the early 1950’s, the Children's Health Council (CHC) seeks to make a measurable difference in the lives of children and their families who face developmental, behavioral, emotional and learning challenges. This funding includes the following grants:

$20,000 for general operating support
$3,000 for the 2006 Summer Symphony

Why we supported: Michele is a Board member of the Children's Health Council and these grants reflect her commitment to the physical, mental and emotional well-being of children.

Community Foundation Silicon Valley: $6,500
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:

$1,000 for the Philanthropy Incubator Silicon Valley Launch event
$3,000 for the CFSV annual meeting
$2,500 for Silicon Valley Social Ventures (SV2)

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.

Community Services Agency: $2,500
www.csacares.org
Community Services Agency (CSA) has been providing vital social services to residents of Mountain View, Los Altos and Los Altos Hills, California, for over 40 years. Its mission is to promote independence and self-sufficiency through direct service, advocacy and referral to residents who have economic, physical or social needs.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve and Michele Kirsch.

Computer History Museum: $2,000
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 20,000 objects, documents, software, photographs and films. This funding provides general operating support for 2006.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Domestic Violence Intervention Collaborative: $1,000
www.domesticviolenceconference.com
This grant supports the 2006 Domestic Violence Conference, an annual event in its 13th year, partially sponsored by the Domestic Violence Council of Santa Clara County. The council aims to improve coordination among agencies, departments, courts, members of the community and victims in matters of family violence and abuse; to promote effective prevention, intervention and treatment techniques which will be developed based on research and data collection; to improve the response to domestic violence and abuse so as to reduce such incidents; and to educate the public about the need to end domestic violence.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Family and Children Services: $1,500
www.fcservices.org
Family and Children Services is a private, non-profit human service agency serving individuals, couples and families throughout San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. Its mission is to provide programs and services that support the emotional well-being of our community. This funding includes the following grants:

$500 discretionary grant chosen by Jeanne Labozetta, the winner of the 2006 Kirsch Foundation Survey drawing
$1,000 for general operating support

Why we supported: The latter grant was recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Foothill-De Anza Foundation: $2,000
www.foundation.fhda.edu
The mission of the Foothill-De Anza Foundation is to raise and invest funds to support the educational excellence of Foothill College and De Anza College. This funding includes the following grants:

$1,000 for the Chancellor’s Circle program
$1,000 for the Krause Center of Innovation

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

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo: $500
www.happyhollowparkandzoo.org
Happy Hollow Park & 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. This grant will provide funding for a custom designed voice box to accompany one of the zoo's exhibits.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Hidden Villa: $3,000
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 includes the following grants:

$1,000 for operating support
$2,000 in additional operating support

Why we supported: These grants reflects the Foundation's commitment to environmental issues and its support of the local community.

Junior Achievement of Silicon Valley and Monterey Bay, 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 Silicon Valley and Monterey Bay visionary leaders each year. The laureates are chosen by an independent selection committee for their unique contributions to business and community service. This funding supports the 2006 Hall of Fame event.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch in honor of Sally Osberg, the President & CEO of the Skoll Foundation.

The Junior League of Palo Alto - Mid Peninsula, Inc.: $1,000
www.jlweb.org/paloalto
The Junior League of Palo Alto - Mid Peninsula, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. This grant is for the Endowment Fund.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele 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 local families in need.
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
The Lucile Packard Foundation for Children's Health is devoted exclusively to promoting, protecting, and sustaining the health of children, with a focus on San Mateo and Santa Clara counties in Northern California.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch to further her commitment to the welfare of our community's children.

People Acting in Community Together (PACT): $1,000
www.pactsj.org
People Acting in Community Together (PACT) helps everyday people win extraordinary victories by teaching them how to speak, act, and engage in the public arena for themselves through grassroots organization. This grant supports PACT’s 2006 Leadership Luncheon.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve and Michele Kirsch.

Resource Area for Teaching (RAFT): $4,500
www.raft.net
Resource Area for Teaching (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 RAFT’s “creativity warehouse.” 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:

$1,000 for the 2006 Honor Roll luncheon
$3,500 for general operating support

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

San Jose Repertory Theatre: $5,000
www.sjrep.com
San Jose Rep's mission is to stimulate, celebrate and enhance understanding of ourselves and others through the shared experience of live theatre by producing new plays and classics marked by innovative interpretations and a reflection and inclusion of our community and the world in which we live.
Why we supported: This is a Director's Discretionary Grant recommended by Board member Perry Olson.

Santa Clara University: $1,500
www.scu.edu
Santa Clara University 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 funding includes the following grants:

$1,000 for the School of Law’s annual fund
$500 for annual support of the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics

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

Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties: $6,000
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 27 million pounds of food each year to low-income children, adults and seniors. The Food Bank currently serves an average of 163,500 individuals each month; nearly 60% are families with dependent children. This funding includes the following grants:

$5,000 for the 2005 Holiday Food Drive
$1,000 for general operating support

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 Toxics Coalition: $1,000
www.svtc.org
The Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition (SVTC) was formed in 1982 in response to the discovery of groundwater contamination throughout Silicon Valley near high-tech manufacturing facilities. SVTC is a diverse organization engaged in research, advocacy, and grassroots organizing to promote human health and environmental justice in response to the rapid growth of the high-tech industry. This funding provides general operating support.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Stanford University – Bing Nursery School: $5,000
www.stanford.edu/dept/bingschool
Bing Nursery School is part of the Department of Psychology at Stanford University. The school was established to provide a sound educational environment for young children, to provide a laboratory setting for research in child development, and to teach undergraduate and graduate students about children through observation and first-hand experience in the classroom. This funding includes the following grants:

$2,500 for the Harvest Moon Auction 2006
$2,500 for annual support

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

The Tech Museum of Innovation: $500
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 aims to inspire the innovator in everyone. This grant supports the museum’s annual Tech Awards Gala.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

United Way Silicon Valley: $5,000
www.uwsv.org
United Way Silicon Valley is a locally governed, independent nonprofit organization with more than 80 years of service to the people of Silicon Valley. United Way's purpose is to raise funds for health and human services agencies and private nonprofit agencies to identify and solve complex local problems.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

ZeroOne: $2,000
www.zero1.org
ZeroOne: The Art and Technology Network is a nonprofit that generates provocative dialog and emotive experiences to engage and educate the community at large. Its core mission is to inspire possibility through the synergy of Art and Technology. This funding includes the following grants:

$1,000 for the 2006 Global Festival of Art on the Edge
$1,000 for the ZeroOne San Jose 2008 festival

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

Discretionary Grants

All Stars Helping Kids
www.allstarshelpingkids.com
Founded in 1989 by NFL Hall of Famer Ronnie Lott, All Stars Helping Kids works to support organizations that break the cycle of poverty through education, provide enriching opportunities for at-risk youth, strengthen low-income families, and make life brighter for children facing life-threatening illnesses. This grant supports Champion Charities’ third annual Night at the Theatre fundraiser, a presentation of the Tony award winning musical “Jersey Boys.”
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

American Heart Association
www.americanheart.org
The American Heart Association's mission is simple and direct: to reduce risk, disability, and death from cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant in memory of Michele Kirsch’s mother, Toshi van Blitter.

Asian Pacific Fund
www.asianpacificfund.org
Established in 1993, the Asian Pacific Fund aims to increase philanthropy in the Bay Area Asian community, expanding resources to meet emerging and important needs. It provides a variety of services, from health and education to arts and culture. Two grants were awarded:

To support the Dr. Tien Education Leadership Awards
In honor of Board Member Emerald Yeh

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

Association of Space Explorers
www.space-explorers.org
The Association of Space Explorers (ASE) is an international nonprofit professional and educational organization of over 300 individuals from twenty-nine nations who have flown in space. Founded in 1985, ASE's mission is to provide a forum for professional dialogue among individuals who have flown in space, support space science and exploration for the benefit of all, promote education in science and engineering, foster greater environmental awareness, and encourage international cooperation in the human exploration of space. This pledge, which will only be paid when ASE secures $200,000 in other contributions, will support four workshops over two years to draft a United Nations treaty on Near Earth Object (NEO) Deflection.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch and represents his ongoing concern with the danger of NEOs.

The Aspen Institute
www.aspeninstitute.org
The mission of the Aspen Institute is to foster enlightened leadership and open-minded dialogue. Through seminars, policy programs, conferences and leadership development initiatives, the Institute and its international partners seek to promote nonpartisan inquiry and an appreciation for timeless values. This funding is for the Henry Crown Fellows Capital Campaign.
Why we supported: Steve Kirsch was part of the first class of the Henry Crown Fellowship Program and supports the development of the next generation of community-spirited leaders.

California Clean Money Action Fund
www.cacleanaction.org
California Clean Money Action Fund is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization whose mission is to help pass full public funding of election campaigns at all levels of government in California through educational and electoral activity including public education campaigns, grassroots organizing, and legislative and initiative advocacy. It is the political arm of the California Clean Money Campaign. This grant supports the organization’s efforts to pass Proposition 89, the California Clean Money and Fair Elections Act, on the November 2006 ballot.
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.

California Highway Patrol 11-99 Foundation
www.chp1199.org
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) 11-99 Foundation was established in 1981 to provide financial aid to employees and their families if the employee suffers a prolonged illness and exhausts his or her insurance coverage, or the officer loses his or her life while in the line of duty. The organization has provided over $2 million in benefits, which have been used to assist CHP families with a variety of financial problems, including those not related to illness or fatality. They also provide scholarships to dependents of CHP employees. This grant is for general support.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele 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 16,000 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 18th Annual Distinguished Citizen Award, which is being given to stem cell researchers and institutions.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve and Michele Kirsch and is consistent with their support of the innovative research being undertaken by those being honored.

Global Fund for Women
www.globalfundforwomen.org
The Global Fund for Women is a grantmaking foundation supporting women’s human rights organizations around the world working to address critical issues such as gaining economic independence, increasing girls’ access to education and stopping violence against women. Two general operating support grants were awarded.
Why we supported: These are discretionary grants recommended by Michele Kirsch.

John Burton Foundation for Children Without Homes
The John Burton Foundation for Children Without Homes was founded in 2004 by former 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. This grant provides general operating support.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Joint Iraqi Development and Unity (JIDU) Foundation
www.jidu.us
The JIDU Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of the long-suffering Iraqi people and enabling the formation of a just, viable, independent and democratic nation in Iraq. This grant supports the JIDU Foundation’s Iraqi wheelchair project.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

Kristi Yamaguchi’s Always Dream Foundation
www.alwaysdream.org
Kristi Yamaguchi’s Always Dream Foundation was started in 1996 by the Olympic gold medal-winning figure skater. The foundation teams with other organizations and businesses to provide opportunities for children. Among its many activities, it has supported after-school programs, sponsored a summer camp for youth with disabilities, and worked to improve the quality of life for children in shelters. This grant supports the 2006 Passage to Paradise event.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – San Francisco/Bay Area Chapter
www.leukemia-lymphoma.org/hm_lls
The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is the world's largest voluntary health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. The Society's mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and to improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Since its founding in 1949, the Society has provided more than $483 million for research specifically targeting blood-related cancers.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant in support of Steve Strange’s participation in the Team in Training Treasure Island Triathlon.

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.

Military Families Speak Out
www.mfso.org
Military Families Speak Out (MFSO) is an organization of people opposed to the war in Iraq who have relatives or loved ones in the military. Formed by two families in 2002, MFSO now has a membership of over 2,900 military families. Through letter writing, speeches, publicity and rallies, MFSO actively works to support military troops and protest the war in Iraq. This grant is to support testimony before the House Armed Services Committee & House Appropriations Subcommittee.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Steve Kirsch.

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. Two grants were provided for annual support and general operating support.
Why we supported: Michele Kirsch is a graduate of Mills College and she recommended these grants.

NARAL Pro-Choice America Foundation
www.naral.org
NARAL Pro-Choice America Foundation's goals are to support and protect, as a fundamental right and value, a woman's freedom to make personal decisions regarding the full range of reproductive choices through education, training, organizing, legal action, and public policy. This funding supports the Power of Choice luncheon.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Nathan Adelson Hospice
www.nah.org
Nathan Adelson Hospice was formed as a nonprofit program to provide quality care and compassionate support for patients who have been diagnosed with a terminal illness and a life expectancy that can be measured in weeks or months, rather than years.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant in memory of Susan Frank’s father, Edward Frank.

National Public Radio
www.npr.org
America's premier public radio service, National Public Radio (NPR), brings award-winning news, information and cultural programs to an audience of 25 million Americans each week via 800 independently operated, noncommercial public radio stations. This grant provides general operating support for 2006.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Ploughshares Fund
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 $4 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."
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant in memory of Sally Lilienthal, the founder of Ploughshares Fund.

Reach for Tomorrow, Research Today
www.reachfortomorrow.info
This funding supports the Gala Event benefiting the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM). Created by the overwhelming passage of Proposition 71 in 2004, CIRM is the only state-based stem cell research institute in the United States.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

Rocket Dog Rescue
www.rocketdogrescue.org
Founded in 2001, Rocket Dog Rescue is an all volunteer-run nonprofit group dedicated to saving homeless and abandoned animals from euthanasia in overcrowded San Francisco Bay Area shelters. This grant is in honor of Ms. Pali Boucher, the founder of the organization.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation
www.tocelebratelife.org
The To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation, formerly the Marin Breast Cancer Council, reaches out to enrich the lives of women and men living with breast cancer. It accomplishes its mission by providing grants for support programs, early detection screenings and emotional and educational services; securing resources for Bay Area organizations, including those supporting underserved communities; and offering healing opportunities for those living with breast cancer through annual events, including the Rally to Celebrate life, which this grant supports.
Why we supported: This is a discretionary grant recommended by Michele Kirsch.

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 helped to underwrite the 2006 Global Philanthropy Forum. 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.