Marin Community Foundation this week announced the establishment of the Stinson/Bolinas Community Fund (SBCF).

The fund's purpose is to encourage philanthropy throughout West Marin, initially by providing funding for projects that benefit Stinson Beach and Bolinas.

Harriett Moss, speaking on behalf of the fund's founding donors noted, "Our decision to establish The Stinson Beach Community Fund is in recognition of the extraordinary needs, opportunities, and talents that exist in West Marin.

"Initially we will concentrate on the Stinson Beach and Bolinas communities. However, our hope is that other philanthropically-inclined individuals from throughout West Marin will join us, help us expand our present mission, and work to achieve the quality of life that all communities in West Marin deserve."

A committee of local donors, whose initial contributions fueled this community-based effort, will advise the foundation regarding grants from the new fund. As this committee of local donors expands, so too will the areas in which the fund is able to make grant awards.

Those wishing to join the committee of local donors can contact Jane Slack at 868-1921.

Stephen Dobbs, president of the foundation, added, "MCF has a broad range of community commitments, but none can be more important than helping each of Marin's geographic communities develop its own influential philanthropic base.

"A community fund such as SBCF is a powerful way to engage local leadership in building the capacity to sustain and improve the quality of life of each of Marin's many communities."

SBCF will provide a maximum of $3,000 to successful applicants during any of its two yearly grantmaking cycles. Application deadlines for these semi-annual cycles are Oct. 31 and April 30.

To be eligible for support, an applicant must be an organization, group, or individual whose project has demonstrable, charitable benefits for residents of Stinson Beach or Bolinas.

Although matching funds, donated materials, or in-kind (donated) services are not required for each project, applicants providing evidence of this type of additional support will receive priority consideration.

Application guidelines are available by calling Alexandra Derby at 461-3333.