True stories of inspiring generosity

Each year, people from all walks of life make generous donations to Placer Community Foundation. We use these funds to issue grants to the nonprofit organizations working to resolve pressing community needs and seize important community opportunities. Together, we’re making life better in Placer County.

We invite you to read these true stories of impact and hope. In some cases, we've changed people's names to protect their privacy.

A commitment that will last forever

Herb and Rhea Trittenbach were committed to helping their neighbors. Their unrestricted gift to the Foundation will continue to serve the region they loved forever.

More >>

Conservationist takes preservation seriously

Helen Shuman partnered with her community foundation to turn 100 acres of property into Shuman Foundation for the Environment, a supporting organization that will benefit the environment for years to come.

More >>

From Carmel beach house to local scholarships

Four generations of Walsh family members contributed to the growth and prosperity of Auburn. With no heirs of her own, Marian Walsh established a named scholarship fund to continue her family's legacy of investment in our community's youth.

More >>

Legacy created through commitment to education

Larry Mitchell knew at a young age the importance of education.  In 1960 he wrote in a high school essay:

“Preparations for college should begin early in life.  Studying is one way to prepare for college…but another important preparation is putting aside some money for all the expenses of a higher education.”

More >>

Legacy gift left as thank you for care given

Frank Porter has made an indelible mark of gratitude for vital care he received during his last years of life. His gift through bequest provides support to organizations offering services to home-bound residents in Placer County.

More >>

Local artist and land conservationist remembered

Through an endowed gift from her mother Sue D. Cooley and the Sky View Foundation, the Susan Cooley-Gilliom ART program honors the legacy of a beloved local artist whose inspiration was found through her profound experiences in nature.

More >>

Local family gives back to place of home

For the Haney Family, establishing the donor advised Allegiant Youth Sports Fund was a way to bridge the family's interests with their desire to give back to community.

More >>

One man's enduring gift to support a variety of causes

Robert Kemp's career changed over time but each position he held had a common theme of public service. Now his generous estate gift also offers the ability to change over time--supporting a variety of charitable organizations that serve the community.

More >>

Prospectors' gift of property benefits community

"Times change, and the Board will change, and who are we to tie the hands of tomorrow?"

– M.S. Beecher, founder, Auburn Community Foundation

More >>

Savvy investments yield $2 million charitable fund

An unrestricted endowment established as a bequest by Irene Schnaus will continue to meet the changing needs of our community far into the future. Irene's legacy, marked with the same generous and savvy qualities we remember her for, meets needs from animal welfare to the arts, education and community development.

More >>

Tragic loss turned to positively impact teens

For Vincent and Eileen Bellotti establishing a fund at the Placer Community Foundation in their daughter’s memory today means knowing they are providing teens “life-saving training” and helping to prevent parents from experiencing a tragic loss like they themselves have suffered

More >>