Mission Statement

The Foundation’s mission is to carry on the Copley family’s legacy of giving by funding nonprofit organizations making a difference in the areas of human services, military and military veterans, youth development, medical and medical research, education, arts and culture and animal welfare, especially those programs and services improving the life or opportunities of the underserved in the San Diego area.

History

The David C. Copley Foundation (formerly known as the Helen K. and James S. Copley Foundation) began in 1953 as The Copley Foundation and was initially funded by The Copley Press, Inc., owner of multiple newspapers in California, Illinois and Ohio. David C. Copley, the son of Helen K. and James S. Copley, was a businessman and philanthropist, born and raised in San Diego. He passed away in 2012 naming the Foundation as the sole residuary beneficiary of his estate. Upon David Copley’s passing, the Foundation has been governed by independent directors whose mission is to continue the Copley Family legacy.

2025 Impact Report

The David C. Copley Foundation remained committed to the Copley Family’s mission of supporting nonprofit organizations addressing urgent human service needs, mental health, youth development, and education. The Foundation also continued its long-standing support of medical research, the arts, animal welfare, disaster relief, and programs directly assisting veterans and military families. This year, grants awarded to Support The Enlisted Project and Meals on Wheels San Diego helped each respective organization relocate to larger facilities, allowing them to expand essential services for military personnel and seniors.

The Foundation is also especially proud of its growing collaboration with local nonprofits working to address San Diego’s escalating homeless youth and foster youth crisis through the United for Youth initiative.

The year 2025, however, brought significant challenges. Unforeseen government funding cuts strained many nonprofits’ ability to deliver critical services related to food insecurity, education, and medical care. In response, the Foundation temporarily streamlined its application and review processes to expedite funding to those working the frontlines. Ultimately, the Foundation awarded 210 grants totaling almost $8 million supporting a wide range of organizations that continue to make a meaningful impact across our community and surrounding areas.

The David C. Copley Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting equitable and diverse nonprofit organizations, honoring the legacy of David C. Copley and his parents, Helen K. and James S. Copley.

Click here to see the list of organizations receiving grants in 2025 from the Foundation.

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Eric O. Freeberg	Kimberly Koch
Board Chair & CEO	Chief Operating Officer

Our Team