Reader Recognition Event: Celebrating Impact and Gratitude
On January 29, we gathered at the beautiful Skyway Center property in San Carlos for a special evening of appreciation and celebration. Our Reader Recognition Event honored the 35 dedicated volunteers who served as Grant Readers for our 2025 grant cycle. It was a meaningful night filled with gratitude, learning, and community connection.
Each year, our Grant Readers play an important role in helping the Community Foundation of San Carlos fulfill its mission: to improve the lives of all who live, work, play, and learn in San Carlos. This work takes time, focus, and deep care. Our volunteers carefully reviewed a large pool of grant applications from local nonprofits, giving thoughtful scores and feedback. Their commitment ensures that every application is reviewed with fairness and respect.
This year, we introduced updates to our scoring process. Grants Co-chair & VP Julie Wynn walked attendees through how volunteer scores were translated into final funding allocations. She explained the steps taken to ensure the process remained transparent, balanced, and aligned with our mission. By refining our approach, we continue to strengthen how we invest in our community.
We were proud to announce the nonprofits receiving funding during this grant cycle. These organizations serve critical needs across four vital pillars:
Basic Needs & Mental Health
Youth & Education
Community & Sustainability
Arts & Culture
This year’s 4 areas of grant coverage
Each of these pillars reflects what makes San Carlos such a vibrant and caring place. From supporting families facing hardship, to empowering young people, to preserving our environment, to enriching lives through the arts, these grants help create lasting impact throughout our city.
Following the presentation, we raised a toast to another successful year. Guests enjoyed refreshments from local favorite Bianchini’s Market while connecting with fellow volunteers and Foundation leaders. The evening was not just a celebration of funding decisions. It was a celebration of service, generosity, and shared purpose.
The Foundation Board is incredibly grateful to our 35 Grant Readers. Their countless hours of work truly are a labor of love. Their dedication shows the deep care that San Carlans have for their neighbors and for the future of our community.
To every volunteer who participated, thank you. Because of you, we are able to make thoughtful, meaningful investments that strengthen San Carlos for everyone.
Together, we continue to build a stronger, more connected community.