Founded in 1956, the Santa Monica College Foundation is a separate, non-profit, tax-exempt organization (501(c)3). It is through this vehicle that private, tax- deductible donations are made for the benefit of Santa Monica College. Help us fulfill our mission and make a difference in a student's life by becoming a member of the President's Circle.

According to the guidelines of the Network of California Community Colleges, community college foundations exist to meet the following needs: generate additional funding for the college; “friendraise”; provide community leaders with opportunities to participate in college activities; enhance the image of the college and increase its prestige and visibility. SMCF supports the private fund-raising efforts of the various campus programs and departments by receiving, dispersing and investing private donations. In addition, undesignated annual gifts are used to initiate programs for the benefit of the students and faculty at SMC. These include scholarships, internships, faculty chairs and grants, Halls of Fame and matching funds for myriad campus endowment campaigns.