Grantmaking is directed primarily toward women and girls and/or environmental organizations with a particular emphasis on programs that foster social responsibility and promote civic engagement, leadership, and activism.
We fund only 501(c)(3) organizations. We typically do not fund capital campaigns, international programs, health services, direct service programs, drug or alcohol rehabilitation, or film/video projects. You may send a two-page letter of inquiry that describes your program’s objectives and funding needs. You will be invited to send a proposal should your work align with our priorities.
Susie T. Buell, Founder
Susie is the co-founder of the global lifestyle company Esprit de Corp. She is often credited with introducing the Northern California lifestyle to the world through Esprit’s products, groundbreaking marketing, and progressive corporate culture. As a conscientious entrepreneur, Susie pushed the company to move toward practicing corporate, social, and environmental responsibility. Through innovative in-house programs and provocative advertising campaigns, Esprit raised awareness and inspired activism among employees and consumers.
Since selling the company, Susie has devoted herself to philanthropy and politics and is considered one of the most influential Democratic political fundraisers in the country. A native San Franciscan, lifelong feminist, and environmental activist, Susie continues to support climate solutions and programs that develop leadership among women and girls locally, nationally, and globally.
Belinda Muñoz, Executive Director
Belinda first answered the call to advocacy for women and girls when she volunteered at a shelter for domestic violence victims. She later left a private-sector career to join a network of women’s foundations which led her to the Susie Tompkins Buell Foundation. She currently works as the Buell Office’s strategic funding advisor, runs its political fundraising and engagement operations, and serves as the de facto advisor to the Buell network’s fellow donors and raisers.
Belinda also oversees the creation of The Rising and The UpRising, the organization’s spirit-raising newsletters; her writings have been featured in various publications and lifestyle websites. She studied philosophy, theology, and psychology at the University of San Francisco and lives in San Francisco with her husband and son.
Ella Arnold, Politics & Philanthropy Associate
Ella developed her donor management and fundraising skills at Buell Private Political Management where she handled political operations for several prominent Bay Area families. She has also worked as the INFORUM Programs Manager for the Commonwealth Club of California, the nation's oldest and largest public affairs forum. During her time at the Club, Ella produced live, onstage events featuring leaders in a variety of disciplines at venues throughout San Francisco.
Outside of her work, she has served as a Second Century Campaign Committee Partner for Planned Parenthood Northern California and as Board Liaison to the Committee for California Women's List. Ella graduated from San Francisco State University where she majored in Communication Studies.
email: info@buellofficesf.com
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