No one ever said change was easy. From day one, the Kirsch Foundation’s mission has been to effect change on a global scale by tackling challenging and sometimes controversial issues. Even in our infancy we were wise enough to recognize that with such lofty ambitions, an insular approach would not get us far. That is why we have made substantial effort in our seven years to forge partnerships that could help us achieve our goals. From seeking out existing organizations that share our vision to helping with the creation of new collaborations, working with others has been our key to making progress.

Whether engaged in grantmaking or advocacy in our core focus areas - San Joaquin Valley air quality and nuclear nonproliferation - we have worked side-by-side with colleague organizations toward a common vision: improving the world in which we live. While only limited resources were devoted toward the issues of embryonic stem cell research and campaign finance reform, we remained committed to those causes through coalition-style efforts.

This past year, our partnerships continued to be strategic and effective due, in no small part, to our talented and passionate staff. Susan, May, and Connie were highly successful in furthering the Foundation’s agenda by cultivating relationships with individuals and nonprofit entities who share our vision for a safer, healthier world. Additionally, Foundation Board members Perry Olson and Bill Johnson were engaged and thoughtful partners while helping us navigate the evolution of our priorities and strategic plan.

In this annual report, we highlight two of the Foundation’s core values that have been the hallmark of our collaborative efforts: 1) granting money in partnership with other funders and 2) pursuing our public policy agenda through active lobbying, in coalition, at all levels of government. Our grantmaking and dedication to public policy have helped to establish partnerships like the Central Valley Air Quality (CVAQ) Coalition and the Arms Control Advocacy Collaborative (AC²), which are now recognized and respected players in the California clean air and global nonproliferation fields, respectively.

We have also enjoyed a long-lasting partnership with Community Foundation Silicon Valley (CFSV). As a supporting foundation of CFSV, we receive tremendous support from the organization and particularly its President, Peter Hero, to tackle our multi-faceted agenda while remaining rooted in Silicon Valley and maintaining our commitment to the local community. We look ahead with excitement and optimism as CFSV merges with Peninsula Community Foundation to become the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, and we are eager to foster our existing relationship.

Change is never easy, but then nothing worth fighting for ever has been. Over the years, we have learned that fighting alone is not likely to result in significant progress. We thank all of our friends and partners who have helped us strive for change and achieve success. Together we will continue to create a safer and healthier world.

Sincerely,