Empowering Giving,
Strengthening Communities.
About the Foundation
The South Bay Friends Foundation is a charitable organization built on one simple idea: friends coming together to make a difference.
Our members—primarily from the South Bay communities of greater Los Angeles—pool their resources, connect with one another, and vote on which local and regional nonprofits to support. It’s a unique way to amplify the impact of individual giving: instead of writing one small check, members collectively decide where their larger combined contributions will do the most good.
While our heart is in the South Bay, the organizations we fund are not limited here. Many of the charities we support extend far beyond our beaches, touching lives and strengthening communities wherever the need is greatest. By broadening our reach, we ensure that members’ generosity has a lasting effect, both locally and across regions that rely on additional support.
Getting involved with the South Bay Friends Foundation means more than just giving—it’s about building relationships, learning about causes that matter, and making philanthropy fun and social. Together, we’re creating a ripple effect of generosity that starts in the South Bay and reaches much farther, demonstrating the true power of collective giving.
Our membership reach includes Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, as well as Torrance, Palos Verdes, Playa Del Rey, and other neighboring communities.
Events That Bring Us Together
At the South Bay Friends Foundation, our events are at the heart of what we do. They’re more than just parties - they’re opportunities to connect, celebrate and make a real impact.
Throughout the year, members come together for fun, themed events and meaningful conversations. From holiday parties hosted in members’ homes to anniversary celebrations with live music, raffles, and dancing, every gathering is a chance to strengthen friendships while supporting local causes.
One of our most exciting traditions is our annual Quick Pitch event. A dozen nonprofits each have just 4 minutes to present their mission to the crowd - making their best “pitch” about why they deserve funding. At the end of the night our members cast their votes and funds are awarded to the winner - usually $10,000 - in this winner-take-all event! It’s fast-paced, inspiring, and a great way to discover new organizations doing important work.
We love to celebrate milestones in style! From our Country Night with raffles and dancing to our ’80s Bash with live bands and neon fun, these themed anniversaries bring the community together while showcasing the joy of giving.
Each photo in this gallery highlights those moments—friends gathering, organizations sharing their stories, and a community united by generosity.
How to Get Involved
Becoming a member of the South Bay Friends Foundation is the easiest (and most fun!) way to make an impact. For just $150 a year, you’ll join a community of friends who care about giving back and supporting nonprofits doing amazing work.
It’s more than just a membership—it’s joining a circle of generosity, friendship and fun. Sign up today, and you’ll be added to our member list, ensuring that you’re invited to every event and every opportunity to make a difference.
Your membership includes:
- Access to all of our events throughout the year - the annual Quick Pitch event, themed anniversary parties, holiday gatherings, and more. We don't ask for any further contributions from our members - it's all included as part of your $150 annual membership.
- A direct voice in giving—you can nominate your favorite nonprofits and then you'll vote on which organizations receive funding at our events.
- Connection & community—meet new people, discover nonprofits, and be part of something bigger than yourself.
Photography by Danny by the Sea