A Glimpse into the Ertz Family Foundation’s Bay Area Commitment

Here at Inside Philanthropy, we have covered various aspects of sports philanthropy along with the giving of numerous athlete donors and their foundations. The Ertz Family Foundation stands out among them because it was founded by not one, but two professional athletes: Julie Ertz of the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team and Zach Ertz of the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles. The Ertz Family Foundation (EFF) aims to “empower others by sharing faith, learning through sports and advancing education to build supportive communities.”

Here are a few things to know about EFF’s local commitments, including to the Bay Area of California.

Three pillars of service

There are three aspects to EFF’s philanthropy: youth sports, education and family. Since both founders are athletes, it is not surprising that youth sports is a priority area. The foundation donates money to provide opportunities for youth as they learn the value of nutrition, exercise, leadership, accountability, work ethic and teamwork.

EFF funds education groups and looks to improve the quality of education through support for students, teachers and schools. More generally, the funder also supports local causes for families in the Bay Area, aiming to restore hope and build communities.

Funding in northern California and beyond

The Ertzes have three geographical areas of interest: Philadelphia, Haiti and the Bay Area of California. Lately, Philadelphia has been getting the bulk of the funder’s attention — recent news stories detail the family’s mission to support Philadelphia’s House of Hope and the couple throwing out the first pitch at a Phillies game with their new baby.

However, Northern California is still an interest for the couple, who met in college when Julie was attending Santa Clara University and Zach was attending Stanford nearby. The foundation has hosted fundraisers in Northern California and supported local youth through College Is Real, an education and tutoring program. The Ertzes hosted a launch event in Pleasanton, California and have said that “The Bay Area has and will always have a special place in our hearts.”

Even as giving has taken on a Philadelphia focus, the foundation still has Bay Area roots, and this local connection is something to keep an eye on as the foundation continues to evolve. The city of Richmond, California has been of particular interest to the couple.

Grantseeker contact is welcome

Although EFF does not provide a straightforward way for grantseekers to apply for funding nor offer application forms on its website, it is open to learning about new funding opportunities. The foundation is accessible, accepts unsolicited requests and is best reached by email or online contact form. Bay Area grantseekers may reach out to the foundation directly with general inquiries or to introduce a Bay Area program that revolves around youth sports, quality education or bringing families together in underserved Northern California communities.

You can read more about Bay Area foundations in IP’s regional guide.

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