The San Diego Foundation Development & Stewardship Team is here to help you by delivering world-class philanthropy and service, and promptly responding to your needs.
In this Meet our Giving Team blog series, we’re interviewing each of our team members so you can learn more about the individuals – both professionally and personally – who are helping you give confidently to make the most social impact.
In today’s post, meet Brian Zumbano, Vice President, Chief Development and Stewardship Officer.
When I first came to San Diego in 2013, I learned about the leaders in the nonprofit community, which obviously included my predecessor at TSDF, Adrienne Vargas.
Like all San Diego nonprofit professionals, I greatly respected and admired the amazing impact Adrienne and her team had at TSDF and in our community. Our current Giving Team strives to live up to the standard Adrienne and her team set for our work.
Helping them realize the impact of their giving. San Diegans are amazingly generous and philanthropic. The more we can support their charitable goals, the more we can realize our vision of building just, equitable, and resilient communities throughout our region.
It’s a privilege to work with such passionate and dedicated professionals. Their commitment and collaborative approach to supporting our community makes me want to get up and get to work every day. And they’re fun to hang out with, too!
Cooking. It’s a passion of mine, and it reminds me of my family growing up. Coming from an Italian family from back East, I have the fondest memories of bustling kitchens and large family dinners. Any free time we have as a family, we try to do the same.
During COVID-19, it’s been so important, yet challenging, to get outside and exercise. There’s a little trail off a hill nearby that is on my route I take while jogging. I’ve found myself stopping there a lot during the last year to quietly think and clear my mind. I haven’t told anyone else where it is.
My wife. As a nurse, my wife has dedicated her career to helping others, and her selfless approach to her career, family, friends, and others inspires me to be a better person every day. She’s my hero.
Hiking. California has such gorgeous trails and geography. We love to go hiking, get exercise, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
Thailand. I’ve been there a couple of times, including my honeymoon, and the kindness of the people, the historic culture, and amazing food makes it a place to which I can’t wait to return!
My kids don’t give me any other choice! When you have an 11-year old and an 8-year old in the house, spending time with them and being present as a parent becomes more of a priority than anything else in life.
Because we all know it can be the best place on Earth to live, but we also know too many of our fellow San Diegans don’t have equitable access to the things that make our region such a wonderful place.
“If you love your job, you’ll never work another day in your life.” I never take for granted how lucky I am to live that out at TSDF.
On August 9, 2022, we awarded $838,704 in Opening the Outdoors grants to 24 nonprofit organizations that offer equitable access to outdoor spaces in San Diego County.
“San Diego Foundation is proud to once again support its partners committed to increasing community-driven efforts to enhance accessible outdoor space, encourage youth to learn more through hands-on education and create the next generation of environmental stewards in the San Diego region,” said Christiana DeBenedict, SDF Director of Environment Initiatives.
This year’s grantees will help address these inequities and enhance access to the outdoors throughout San Diego County.
"*" indicates required fields
The Advisor monthly e-newsletter provides philanthropy news and trends and financial planning strategies for advisors and their clients.
"*" indicates required fields
"*" indicates required fields
Receive quarterly email updates about our Children and Families programs and initiatives and opportunities for you to support stronger families in our region.
"*" indicates required fields
Receive quarterly email updates about our Education programs and initiatives and opportunities for you to support enhanced learning experiences and increased access to college for San Diego students.
"*" indicates required fields
Receive quarterly email updates about our Environment and Climate programs and initiatives and opportunities for you to support equitable outdoor access and climate change resiliency.
"*" indicates required fields
Receive quarterly email updates about our Racial and Social Justice programs and initiatives and opportunities for you to learn about creating equitable opportunities for all and how to support our multicultural region and its diverse population.
"*" indicates required fields
This helpful resource provides you with information about corporate philanthropy and custom corporate giving solutions for your business.
"*" indicates required fields
This helpful resource will show you how you can leave a legacy to your family, your charity or your community that complements your will and trust(s).
"*" indicates required fields