Matching gifts with opportunities—how CFMC impacts Merced County.
CFMC serves as the philanthropic hub of Merced County, channeling resources where they are needed most, addressing unique community challenges and amplifying positive impact.
The Foundation is vital in fostering growth and resilience within our community. From supporting education and healthcare to bolstering cultural initiatives, we empower residents to shape their collective future. The Foundation bridges donors' generosity and community needs, cultivating a sense of shared responsibility and collaboration. Through leveraging the initial $2 million endowment to award over $3 million in grant and scholarship funding, the Foundation is the cornerstone of a sustainable, inclusive community.
CFMC’s Giving History / 2015-2023
CFMC has a broad impact, with giving in Health Care, Education, Agriculture & Environment, Human Services, and Community Development, as well as a robust Scholarship fund.
The Community Foundation of Merced County addresses the needs of all Merced County residents
Learn more about a few of the recent projects we’ve funded.
Find a complete list of our past grantees here.
Genevieve Egbunno
Genevieve Egbunno, a PhD candidate at UC Merced, received a $10,000 grant from CFMC to complete her initial field study trip to Nigeria. Ms. Egbunno studies conflict in homes and marriages in southeastern Nigeria resulting from female empowerment for financial and economic independence.
Steady Studios
Steady Studios’ mission is to bridge the digital divide in lower socioeconomic communities by providing STEAM-focused courses for students. Through innovative teaching methods and hands-on experiences, they create an inclusive learning environment that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. By engaging learners of all ages and backgrounds, they seek to cultivate a future generation equipped with the tools to excel in the digital economy.
Martinez Boxing
Martinez Boxing honors equity and inclusion through physical activity by providing access to girls and boys across all communities. The core values taught by Martinez Boxing include respect, discipline, communication, and self-defense with a primary focus on tying physical activity to mental health. Founded by John Martinez, physical training complements the importance of studies to enhance school opportunities for Merced County youth. Martinez Boxing boasts two female boxers ranked #1 in the Nation.
HPEC After School
HPEC After School was founded in October 2008. For over 15 years, HPEC has served students at risk of failing school. Outside of the classroom, HPEC addresses "risky classroom behaviors" developing the skills needed for socio-emotional development. HPEC serves students year-round through after-school & summer academies. With the capacity to serve up to 20 students, HPEC provides targeted services to families that need the most support, including minority, low-income, sober living residential facilities, and foster youth.