The Hutton Parker Foundation this week celebrated the impact of 45 years of giving and more than $100 million in grant-making for Santa Barbara County nonprofits. The event was held at the Cabrillo Pavilion in Santa Barbara.
“We consider it a privilege to support people and organizations that represent what is best about our community,” said Sue Parker, executive vice president of the Hutton Parker Foundation. “We want our grants to help people and make our community stronger.
“Today we honor those leaders of nonprofits and philanthropy who do just that, through their passion, creativity, and effectiveness.”
The Hutton Parker Foundation was founded in 1979 by Betty Hutton and remains a family-led philanthropy. Hutton’s niece Sue Parker and her sons Jess and Chris Parker run the foundation.
The foundation’s philanthropic approach includes direct cash grants to nonprofits, as well as the innovative model of investing into office buildings that nonprofits can use at a reduced cost.
“Our unique approach of providing nonprofit organizations both cash grants and below market office space was honed over many years by my dad Tom Parker and our previous executive director Pam Lewis,” said Chris Parker, foundation vice president. “We are committed to continuing that approach in the years ahead.”
“When you think about philanthropists who’ve had the most positive impact in our local history, the Hutton Parker Foundation is at the top of that list,” said Ernesto Paredes, executive director of Easy Lift Transportation.
“The foundation’s generosity and innovative approach has been transformative for nonprofit organizations and directly benefits tens of thousands of local residents every year,” he said.
The Hutton Parker Foundation supports Santa Barbara County nonprofits focused on health and human services, education, arts and culture, and civic and community initiatives. Applicants may request general operating support, media Grants, and/or capital and multi-year grants.
For more about the foundation and how to apply, visit www.huttonfoundation.org.