History of the San Diego River Park Foundation

The San Diego River Park Foundation is community-based grassroots non-profit organization which was founded in 2001. As a 501 (c)3 public benefit corporation, San Diego River Park Foundation relies upon donations and support from the community for its general operations as well as grants, both public and private.

San Diego River Park Foundation is not a foundation built upon an endowment or other source of funding. We are a foundation in name because we are built upon a foundation of people that have come together toward the goal of creating the San Diego River Park.

The vision of the San Diego River Park is a greenbelt from the mountains to the ocean along the 52 mile long San Diego River. This greenbelt is really a trail system and a clean and healthy river system which connects a diversity of parks, open spaces, public places and community facilities spread out along the length of the River.

The San Diego River Park Foundation is working to achieve this goal by partnering with government agencies such as the San Diego River Conservancy, business and civic leaders and a wide range of public organizations. By promoting stewardship of the River and promoting a better understanding of the River's natural systems, the San Diego River Park Foundation is endeavoring to enhance the quality of life in San Diego.

San Diego River Park Foundation works with community groups and other organizations dedicated to the San Diego River and the River Park and its wildlife, recreation, water, cultural and community values to better engage the public in this project. We support projects which help to establish the river-long park such as restoring and enhancing the river, establishing public plazas and community gardens, and telling the story of the river through interpretive programs, kiosks and educational signage, and more. We also work to acquire and manage critical properties which play an important role in creating the River Park.

We are dedicated to making this project a truly treasured regional asset that is valued by all members of our community. We welcome and encourage everyone who is interested to join us in this effort.