Charities in Seattle, WA

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.