Stanislaus Community Foundation

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember those who gave their lives in service to our country.

Our office will be closed in observance of the holiday and will reopen on Tuesday at 8:30 a.m.

Fund Spotlight: Carter Dewing Memorial Scholarship

Carter Dewing was a beloved son and friend – a bright light for all who knew him, remembered for his generous spirit, caring heart, and infectious smile. He was a dedicated student and athlete who loved music, family gatherings, and spending time with friends.

While attending Modesto High School, he embraced all that the campus had to offer. He participated in Leadership, Mock Trial, volunteered in Youth Court, and was selected as a California Legion of Honor Boys State Delegate – a role that reflected his drive to learn, lead and engage.

Read more on the SCF Blog: stanislauscf.org/blog

Yesterday, members of the Stanislaus Community Foundation (SCF) team attended the 2026 Stronger Together Conference: Building a Better Central Valley. Hosted by United Way of Stanislaus County, the event brought together leaders, partners, and changemakers from across sectors to connect, collaborate, and explore what's possible when we work together to meet the needs of our region.

Our President & CEO, Marian Kaanon, had the honor of moderating a panel of local leaders who shared insights on the leadership challenges they are facing as they work to advance their missions across the Central Valley. SCF was also proud to support the lineup of the day's speakers, bringing in Dwight Smith from the Groundwater Institute to share about the "Groundwater Approach" to creating systemic change that benefits everyone.

By the end of the day, the message was clear: meaningful change starts locally – and together, we can build a stronger, more connected Central Valley.

Today, we celebrate the FOUR year work anniversary of our Administrative & Scholarships Coordinator, Jessica!

Pai Chang, SCF's Controller, shared, "Jessica is one of those people who quietly holds everything together. She steps in wherever needed, is steady and dependable, and lifts everyone with her can do spirit. We are so lucky to have her on our team." 💜

Boyett Petroleum, with support from Stanislaus Community Foundation, is proud to announce the 2026 Make Dreams Real Grantees. Established in 2010 by Carl and Carole Boyett, the Make Dreams Real Endowment Fund aims to make dreams real for school-aged children in Stanislaus County through participation in programs that enrich and stimulate their minds and bodies, and teach values through service learning.

This year, a total of $380,616 was awarded – the most in a single year in Make Dreams Real History! To learn more, visit stanislauscf.org/make-dreams-real.