The CS Fund and Warsh/Mott Legacy are private foundations which are linked by common issue interests and boards of directors. CSF and WML are dedicated to preserving biodiversity, defending democracy, preventing the commodification of life, and protecting human and environmental health.



The CSF/WML board of directors also offers advice on the TOP Fund, a donor-advised fund at the Marin Community Foundation. The Marin Community Foundation operates as a public charity, and maintains discretion over the distribution of money from the TOP Fund. The CSF/WML board of directors also offers advice on the CSE Fund at the Funding Exchange/New York Community Funds.



Proposals to CSF, WML, TOP or CSE are considered together, with the distinction for grantees being only the source of the grant money. All three share the same grantmaking guidelines, application procedures and proposal deadlines.



Grantmaking Philosophy

-CSF/WML grantmaking is forward thinking while guided by a belief in consistent and long-term support. Some organizations have received funding from CSF/WML for over two decades.

-We recognize the importance of general support funds in building institutional strength and longevity and provide such support when appropriate.

-Project-specific grants are also made in order to complement general support grants and strengthen nascent movements.

-Multi-year grants are awarded when we feel such a commitment will provide a distinct advantage to the grantee and will advance the foundations’ objectives.