The well-being of Contra Costa County depends on the dedicated staff and leaders of our nonprofits.

The Dean & Margaret Lesher Foundation created the CARE Fund to support these organizations, ensuring staff have the strength and resilience to continue serving our community.

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

The $200,000 annual CARE Fund offers one-time grants of up to $10,000 for activities that sustain and strengthen nonprofit teams, including:

• Wellness and renewal activities
• Team retreats and relationship-building
• Professional training and development
• Leadership coaching and wellness stipends

RYSE team-building

WHO CAN APPLY?

Nonprofits that:

• Serve Contra Costa County residents, especially in underserved or low-income communities
• Focus on children and families, education, or arts and culture
• Have not previously received a CARE Fund grant

Opportunity Junction retreat

APPLY ONLINE BY NOV. 2

Please submit your application on our online portal before 7 a.m. (PT) on Nov. 2, 2026. Grant recipients will be notified in early December 2026.

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