Charities in Washington

Founded in 1995 by five visionary leaders—Colleen Willoughby, Rhoda Altom, Suzanne Lile Hunter, Anne V. Farrell, and Faye Sarkowsky—Washington Women's Foundation emerged from a revolutionary yet simple idea: women can accomplish far more working together than individually. What began as a gathering of one hundred women committed to pooling their resources has evolved into a thriving collective of hundreds of members, all united by a shared vision of transforming philanthropy in Washington State. Based in Seattle, WA, the Foundation represents a distinctive model of women's giving that prioritizes learning from a place of humility and curiosity while honoring all voices within the community. The organization believes deeply in the power of collective giving and the transformative work being driven by nonprofits across Washington communities. More than two decades of operation have proven the effectiveness of this collaborative approach, with the Foundation becoming a trusted partner to changemakers and community organizations throughout the state. Members join a community of informed, engaged women who are reshaping the landscape of women's philanthropy and demonstrating that when women come together with shared purpose and resources, meaningful, lasting change becomes possible. The Foundation's commitment to listening, respecting diverse perspectives, and supporting organizations led by changemakers makes it a unique force for community transformation in the Pacific Northwest.

Founded in 2006 by Washington State residents of Hispanic and Latino heritage, the Latino Community Fund of Washington represents a community-driven response to the evolving needs of Latino families and neighborhoods. Operating from Seattle, WA, this organization embodies a vision of a vibrant, civically engaged Latino community where healthy, educated families strengthen local economies and social fabric. The Latino Community Fund distinguishes itself through its commitment to Latino-led and Latino-accountable work, ensuring that community members actively participate in shaping their own futures. Guided by principles of strength-based approaches, participatory processes, and inclusive community building, LCF works to dismantle barriers of classism, colonialism, racism, and other forms of oppression that divide communities. The organization recognizes Latinos as philanthropists and contributors to their communities, rejecting stereotypes while celebrating the cultural richness and resilience of the transnational Latino experience. Through leadership development, nonprofit support, and culturally competent programming, the Latino Community Fund cultivates spaces where mutual respect, inclusion, and collective wellbeing flourish. Serving Washington communities with offices in both Seattle and Yakima, LCF demonstrates that effective social change emerges when organizations center community voice, invest in people, and commit to transparent, accountable practices rooted in shared values and authentic relationships.

The Seattle Polish Foundation represents a vital bridge connecting Polish-American communities throughout Washington State to their cultural roots and shared heritage. Originally established as the Polish Home Foundation before adopting its current name, SPF has evolved into the cornerstone Polish-American charitable organization serving Seattle and the broader region. The Foundation's mission centers on honoring and perpetuating Polish traditions by actively supporting the Polish-American community through meaningful engagement with important cultural events and celebrations. Based in Seattle, WA, SPF serves as the financial backbone for the beloved Polish Cultural Center Dom Polski and the Polish Home Association, ensuring these institutions can continue their vital work. What distinguishes SPF is its collaborative approach to cultural preservation—the Foundation works closely with numerous local Polish-American organizations, understanding that community strength comes through partnership and mutual support. By taking an active role in events that matter to Polish-American families and individuals, SPF demonstrates deep commitment to maintaining cultural identity and fostering intergenerational connections. For those seeking to support Polish heritage in the Pacific Northwest, the Seattle Polish Foundation offers meaningful opportunities to contribute to a thriving community legacy.

Founded in 1958 by twenty-two dedicated mothers, the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Seattle Chapter represents over 60 years of commitment to youth excellence and community service in Redmond, Washington and the surrounding region. As the 98th chapter to join the national organization, the Seattle Chapter was built on the visionary philosophy of Marion Stubbs Thomas, which emphasizes bringing children together to form lasting friendships, engage in cultural learning, and grow into conscientious citizens. The organization's deep roots in the Redmond community reflect a mission centered on nurturing future African-American leaders through meaningful relationships and shared values. Today, the chapter serves as a gathering place for families across King and Snohomish Counties, creating spaces where children can play together, learn from one another, and develop a strong sense of civic responsibility. The membership spans diverse communities from Bellevue to Snohomish, united by a common commitment to excellence and community enrichment. Each January, the Seattle Chapter honors its founding mothers through an annual Founders' Day Celebration, recognizing the vision and dedication that established this vital community institution. The chapter's evolution, including the addition of an Associates Mothers Group, demonstrates its ongoing dedication to strengthening families and children in the Redmond area. By combining cultural activities, volunteer opportunities, and philanthropic engagement, the organization embodies the principle that collective effort creates lasting positive change for all children in the community.

CroatiaFest serves the Seattle, Washington community as a passionate advocate for Croatian cultural preservation and education. Founded on a mission to promote and celebrate Croatian heritage, this nonprofit organization brings together Croatian Americans and members of the broader Pacific Northwest community to share in the richness of their ancestral culture. With deep roots in the Seattle area, CroatiaFest has become a trusted institution for families seeking to connect with their Croatian identity and for those interested in learning about Croatian American contributions to building the United States. The organization's annual festival represents more than just a celebration—it's a commitment to ensuring that future generations understand and appreciate the beauty, traditions, and values embedded in Croatian culture. Led by a dedicated board of directors and volunteer coordinators, CroatiaFest creates meaningful experiences that foster community bonds and cultural pride. The organization's tax-deductible nonprofit status reflects its genuine dedication to community service rather than commercial interests. By hosting performances, educational programs, cultural exhibits, and family-friendly activities throughout Seattle, CroatiaFest demonstrates that cultural preservation is about building relationships, sharing stories, and creating spaces where people can celebrate their heritage together while welcoming others to discover and appreciate Croatian traditions.

Native Arts and Cultures Foundation (NACF), headquartered in Vancouver, Washington, represents a distinctive philanthropic approach rooted in Native leadership and community-centered values. As a Native-led 501(c)(3) organization, NACF stands apart by maintaining Indigenous governance and decision-making throughout its operations, ensuring that American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian voices shape the organization's strategic direction and resource allocation. The foundation's commitment extends beyond traditional philanthropy to embrace a holistic vision of cultural perpetuation and community empowerment. NACF recognizes that arts and cultural practices are not merely artistic pursuits but vital expressions of identity, resistance, healing, and continuity for Native peoples. By centering collaboration and equity, the organization creates space for Native communities to define their own cultural priorities and lead initiatives that strengthen their nations and peoples. Operating nationwide from its Vancouver base, NACF serves as a trusted partner to American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities seeking to advance their artistic and cultural missions. The foundation's deep understanding of Native community contexts, combined with its commitment to supporting Indigenous-led solutions, positions it as a unique resource in the philanthropic landscape. Through authentic relationships and sustained investment in Native-determined priorities, NACF demonstrates that meaningful social change emerges when Native peoples have agency, resources, and recognition as leaders of their own cultural futures.