County Foundation executive director moving on

Jefferson Gilbert

The County Foundation is bidding a fond farewell to executive director Jefferson Gilbert after he announced he intends to follow other pursuits in the spring.

Gilbert joined the foundation in 2015, working closely with president Brian Beiles and a volunteer board of directors. The board, in a media release, stated he built a model granting process widely acknowledged for its effectiveness, transparency, integrity, and fairness – one that is appreciated by donors and donees alike and has led to firm and lasting relationships among stakeholders.

The foundation mission is to inspire giving, facilitate grants and support collaborative action to address community needs. Since 2008 it has been building endowments and funds to support organizations and people in the community. Grants back to the community have exceeded $3.2 million. The organization is also known for its PEC Vital Signs reports which provide a statistic-based ‘snapshot’ of the community’s opportunities and challenges.

“The last seven years have been enormously gratifying to be part of The County Foundation and the collective impact in facilitating grants and support of the entire community,” states Gilbert. “The time is right for fresh eyes and ideas to carry the vision ahead. I will enjoy watching and supporting where it makes sense.”

Foundation president Beiles states Gilbert has been a great partner in helping to establish a solid foundation, as well as playing a key role in propelling the organization forward.

“I have greatly appreciated his innovative ideas and his commitment to excellence in contributing both to the foundation and to our community, and wish him well in all his future endeavours.

“As a board, we will miss him very much, as will many in the community who have come to rely upon his counsel, judgement and integrity in carrying out his role. Even beyond that, Jefferson has demonstrated a compassion toward the vulnerable in the County and beyond, that we will continue to uphold.”

The board has begun its search for a new executive director.