Canal Alliance
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Our Marin Community

Marin is a place of prosperity and poverty. Of abundance and hunger. Of people living in isolation and people living in overcrowded conditions. It’s one of the healthiest counties in the state, but also one of the most racially segregated. It has the third highest median home price in the country, creating generational wealth for some, but also creating the highest percentage of in-commuting of any county in the Bay Area. 
 
It’s a complex county with no singular narrative. 
 
But it’s also a place where generosity and creativity abound. We fundamentally believe that if a problem can be solved, it can be solved here. So let’s join forces and tackle the big challenges. Together.  

Four priority communities

While our work stretches across the County and sometimes beyond, four communities in Marin are most impacted by social and economic inequity. Here, the needs and the opportunity for impact are greatest. 

Canal District

A tight-knit, diverse, and culturally-rich community, with many living in poverty and overcrowded living conditions.

Marin City

A community born from African American WWII shipyard laborers, grappling with racial & economic disparity, gentrification & health issues.

Novato

Marin’s second largest city, confronting hidden pockets of deep poverty and a growing cultural diversity.

West Marin

A large rural region defined by agriculture, farm villages, and protected lands - along with a lack of connectivity and infrastructure.

partner spotlight

Founded in 1972, North Marin Community Services connects individuals and families with critical resources that strengthen lives and foster a united, thriving community where everyone has access to opportunities.

Learn more
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How we support Marin nonprofits

While grantmaking is an essential way to support Marin’s hard-working nonprofit network, we have established many other additional resources so we can help in different ways. 

Learn more

Building Community

To build strong community you have to be IN community. 
Check out some local events taking place — and go attend them! 

Invitation to Ritter Center Under the Stars event with details written on a starry night sky

Ritter Center's 5th Annual "Under the Stars" Fundraiser

Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 5:30pm
The Clubhouse at Peacock Gap

Get tickets!
Invitation to North Marin Community Services fundraising event called Brunch, Bubbles & Bocce, with 8 colored balls lined up

North Marin Community Services Brunch, Bocce & Bubbles!

Third annual fundraiser
Saturday May 17, 2025, from 10:30am-2pm
Margaret Todd Senior Center, Novato

Get tickets!
Logo of Agricultural Institute of Marin's annual fundraiser called Gather for the Planet. Wavy letters on a wallpaper background

Agricultural Institute of Marin's Gather for the Planet

Saturday October 4, 2025, from 4:30-8:00pm
Black Mountain Ranch, West Marin

Get tickets!

Our impact in Marin

Since 1987, MCF has granted over $1 billion to community organizations in Marin County, addressing the county’s most persistent challenges.

Read our Research & Perspectives

Let's impact our community

CONTACT US