Since 1992

Our story.

How a small group of Kitsap visionaries created a lasting institution for community good.

Our Beginnings

Rooted in Community

In 1992, a group of dedicated community leaders came together with a bold vision: to create a permanent charitable institution that would serve the Kitsap Peninsula not just for a season, but for generations. They saw a community rich in generosity and civic spirit, yet lacking a central vehicle to channel that goodwill into lasting, meaningful impact.

What began as a modest fund has grown into a trusted philanthropic partner managing more than $45 million in assets. From the start, the founders embedded four core values into the Foundation's DNA — stewardship of donor intent and community resources, courage to address tough challenges, collaboration that multiplies impact, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in everything we do.

Today, Kitsap Community Foundation connects generous donors with the causes they care about most, supports nonprofits working on the front lines of community need, and invests in the next generation through scholarships and youth programs. Every dollar stays right here in Kitsap — because this is home.

Kitsap Peninsula — the community we serve

Our Mission

Why we exist

To strengthen our community by connecting people who care with causes that matter, stewarding charitable giving, and building a permanent source of community capital for the Kitsap Peninsula.

Stewardship

We honor donor intent and treat every gift as a sacred trust. Responsible management of resources ensures that generosity endures and grows over time.

Courage

We tackle the hard problems and embrace bold ideas. True community leadership means stepping forward when it matters most, even when the path is uncertain.

Collaboration

No single organization can solve everything alone. We multiply impact by bridging donors, nonprofits, advisors, and community members toward shared goals.

Excellence

We hold ourselves to the highest standards of transparency, governance, and service. Our community deserves nothing less than our very best effort.

Milestones

Three decades of impact

Founded

A group of Kitsap community leaders establish the Foundation as a permanent charitable institution to serve the Peninsula.

'92

'95

First Grants Awarded

The Foundation awards its first community grants totaling $50,000, seeding programs across education, health, and human services.

$5M in Assets

Assets surpass $5 million. The scholarship program launches, opening doors to higher education for Kitsap students.

'00

'05

Women's Giving Circle

The Women's Giving Circle is established, bringing together philanthropic women to pool resources and amplify their collective impact in Kitsap County.

Kitsap Great Give Launches

The Kitsap Great Give, a 24-hour online giving event, debuts with more than 200 nonprofits participating and thousands of donors rallying behind local causes.

'10

'15

$25M in Assets; KCNE Begins

Assets grow to $25 million. The Kitsap Community for Nonprofit Excellence (KCNE) program begins, strengthening the capacity of local nonprofits through training and resources.

COVID-19 Rapid Response

When the pandemic strikes, KCF mobilizes $500,000 in emergency grants within weeks, providing a lifeline to nonprofits and families across the Kitsap Peninsula.

'20

'23

30th Anniversary

KCF celebrates three decades of service. Assets exceed $45 million, with hundreds of funds serving donors, students, and community organizations across the region.

The Story Continues

Continuing to grow and serve, with $2.4 million granted annually to community causes. The best chapters are still being written — and you are part of them.

'26