The Nancy Jamison Fund for Social Justice

The Nancy Jamison Fund for Social Justice is administered by Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties. The fund was established in honor of Nancy Jamison, who served as President and CEO of San Diego Grantmakers, now Catalyst, from 2005 to 2019. During her tenure, Jamison built a strong philanthropic network, encouraged equity-centered approaches, and emphasized racial and gender justice. Following her passing in 2019, community leaders established the fund to carry forward her legacy of advancing social justice and equity within the San Diego region. The purpose of the Nancy Jamison Fund for Social Justice is to celebrate and support individuals who are making significant contributions toward racial equity and social justice in San Diego County. Rather than funding organizations, the fund highlights the individuals behind the work. Each year, honorees receive unrestricted $50,000 awards that they can use to advance their work in whatever way they find most meaningful. In addition, several finalists are recognized with $5,000 awards for their efforts and contributions to the community. The fund specifically supports those who may be under-celebrated or overlooked in traditional funding channels. The scope of the fund is intentionally broad, designed to uplift leaders working in diverse capacities toward racial equity and social justice. Funds are unrestricted, meaning recipients have full discretion on how to apply the resources to sustain, expand, or enhance their efforts. This flexibility reflects Nancy Jamison’s philosophy of trusting the leadership and vision of community changemakers. Eligibility for the award is open to any resident of San Diego County, and self-nominations are welcomed. Multiple nominations do not increase an applicant’s chance of selection, as all applications are evaluated on their individual merits. Selection criteria include a compelling motivation that drives the nominee’s work, integrity, the ability to bring people together, a clear vision for advancing racial equity or social justice, and a willingness to be recognized publicly in this capacity. There are no restrictions based on organizational affiliation, employment status, or sector. The nomination and application process follows an annual cycle. For the 2025 awards, nominations open on September 12, 2024, and close on December 31, 2024. Finalists will be contacted for in-person conversations in February 2025, with award decisions announced in April 2025. Two individuals are expected to receive $50,000 each, and four finalists will receive $5,000 recognition awards. The fund anticipates awarding two unrestricted $50,000 grants annually for at least the next four years, subject to ongoing review and potential adjustments. Evaluation is conducted based on demonstrated commitment to racial equity and social justice, the nominee’s vision and capacity to bring people together, and the authenticity of their work. The emphasis is on individuals rather than organizations, consistent with Nancy Jamison’s belief in supporting the people driving social change. Donors may also contribute to sustain the fund, with contributions of $500 or more encouraged to be made by check to reduce processing fees. For questions regarding qualifications, applications, or donations, interested parties are directed to contact Michele Silverthorn at michele@catalystsd.org. Additional information, including past recipients and donor opportunities, is available through Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties. The fund office is located at 5060 Shoreham Place, Suite 350, San Diego, California 92122. , individuals can contact Michele Silverthorn at michele@catalystsd.org. The fund invites contributions to sustain its mission of supporting racial equity and social justice leaders. Donations can be made online or by check to Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties. Contributions over $500 are encouraged to be sent by check to reduce processing fees. The fund honors Nancy’s enduring commitment to justice, fostering her vision of equity-driven leadership in the San Diego region.

Self-nominations encouraged; strong emphasis on motivation, integrity, and vision