🎉 Celebrating 30 Years — And We’re Just Getting Started!

Celebrating 30 Years — And We’re Just Getting Started!

In 1995, the world was discovering Windows 95, the first PlayStation was reshaping the future of gaming, and DVDs were making their debut. Closer to home, something equally transformative was happening. The SouthCoast Community Foundation was born with a bold idea and a simple vision: Southeastern Massachusetts could be stronger, more connected, and more vibrant if we united the generosity of people with the power of community — connecting donors with the causes they care about most.

Thirty years later, that vision is not only alive — it’s thriving.

We’ve grown from receiving our first $100,000 charitable gift to becoming a trusted partner and a catalyst for change. We’ve been honored to help shape the SouthCoast’s story. And as we mark this milestone, we’re not just celebrating — we’re stepping into a new era with purpose and momentum.

From Legacy to Launchpad — The Next 30 Years: Bolder, Brighter, Stronger

Our story is rooted in community, and our impact is undeniable. We've driven opportunity, sparked innovation, and strengthened the organizations that make the SouthCoast thrive.

As we honor this milestone, we’re focused on what’s ahead. Our updated mission — uniting people, organizations, and resources to strengthen our communities — lays the foundation for the next 30 years.

Guided by our core values of bold leadership, collaboration, and trusted expertise, we are ready to turn this moment into lasting impact.

Our Path Forward: Growth, Innovation, Transformation

We envision a future where philanthropy is more than generosity — it’s about accelerating ideas and investing in long-term solutions. As the philanthropic and nonprofit landscape evolves, so will we.

That’s why we are:

Preparing for transformative growth — bringing more resources to the communities we serve.
Investing in innovation — launching new tools to better serve donors and nonprofits, streamlining systems, and making philanthropy more welcoming and community-centered.
Standing with our region’s nonprofits — ensuring they have the strength, resilience, and capacity to lead change for generations to come. Because strong communities need strong organizations.

Strategic Vision: The 5G 4C Strategy — Grounded in Place, Focused on Impact

Our 5G 4C Strategy reflects our commitment to every corner of Southeastern Massachusetts. We are deepening relationships in the Five Gateway Cities and extending our reach across the Four Counties we serve.

This strategy ensures that every community is part of this journey. We will strengthen our presence, expand partnerships, and — most importantly — listen closely to the voices shaping our region's future.

Growing Our Team — Growing Our Future

To meet this exciting moment of growth, we’ve expanded our leadership team, welcomed new colleagues, and celebrated the talents of our staff through well-earned promotions and role transitions.

New Leadership

Dianne Gauthier, Chief Strategy Officer
Jess Haas, Chief Advancement Officer

Celebrating New Roles and Transitions

Julie Ramos Gagliardi, Chief Community Investment Officer
Tricia Grime, Director of Philanthropy
Nhamaa Cortes, Business Manager & Accountant
Adrianna Heard, Program Officer
Kim Heard, Executive Coordinator

Each of these leaders brings expertise, passion, creativity, and a deep commitment to our mission. Together, they will help guide the Foundation into its next era of community-centered work.

As we grow, we are evolving — strengthening our team, refining roles, and aligning our structure to meet the needs of the communities we serve today and into the future.

We are especially grateful to the many staff and board members — past and present — whose dedication, leadership, hard work, and vision are woven into the fabric of who we are. Their contributions have shaped the Foundation across three decades and continue to inspire us as we move boldly into the next 30 years.

Thank You

For 30 years, your belief in this work has made all the difference. Together, we’ve created change that matters — and we are just getting started.

The next 30 years will require bold ideas, deep collaboration, and unwavering commitment — and we are ready.

Thank you for being part of this journey. We can’t wait to show you what’s next.

Melanie Edwards-Tavares

President & CEO

P.S. We look forward to sharing more in the coming weeks — including how you can help shape the next 30 years.

Looking Ahead — Join the Celebration!

Mark your calendars and stay connected as we celebrate 30 years of impact — and all the possibilities ahead:

April 4 — 30th Anniversary Campaign Kickoff
May 8-18 — ArtWeek Southcoast
May 28 — Scholarship & Volunteer Recognition Reception
July 19 — The Celebration Begins! Official Launch of Our 30th Anniversary Year
September 12 — Summer’s Last Blast — 30th Anniversary Edition