The San Diego Foundation is excited to announce Brian Zumbano as our new Vice President of Development & Stewardship. His expertise and leadership will help grow charitable giving in the region while providing donors with the highest level of service, community knowledge and philanthropic counsel.
We sat down with Brian to ask him about his passion for philanthropy and working with generous San Diegans. Below are highlights from our conversation.
Early in my career, I worked as a financial advisor in Manhattan. While I enjoyed the relationships I built, the work wasn’t as fulfilling or impactful as I wanted. My long-term plan was to shift my career into a more meaningful direction.
I remember sitting at a wedding in Massachusetts with my friend’s father. He talked to me about his role as a development officer for the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute in Cape Cod and asked me what I loved most about my work. We spoke about relationship building and helping others, and he noted the parallels between a financial advisor and a development officer.
That conversation was a significant catalyst for my career in philanthropy, and helped steer me toward the purpose-driven work I was looking for.
The more philanthropists I meet and have the opportunity to work with, the more encouraged I am about the future of our region.
Philanthropy is deeply ingrained in the culture of our society here. You can see the complete history and evolution of philanthropy in San Diego. Many of the earliest and most notable philanthropists are still living here today and continue to make an impact in the region.
Five years ago, my wife and I made the decision to move our family to San Diego to raise our children here. Since then, we have been involved in our community through our work and our activities. Whether it is by supporting our local YMCA or helping others deepen their impact through charitable giving, we always make a point to help lift our community.
As an Italian American, family and cooking are two of my biggest passions. On weekends, you will find me cooking for my family or teaching my children about new cuisines. This is something I was taught early on, and I want to pass that on to my kids. Cooking is my way to communicate and show my love for my family and friends.
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.
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