A Signature Fund at the Orange County Community Foundation combines the best features of a private foundation with all the advantages of a donor-advised fund. The high level of customized philanthropic support that comes with a Signature Fund at OCCF means you enjoy the utmost in privacy, flexibility, family involvement, recognition and expertise. Learn more

For individuals and families who choose to practice their philanthropy through a private foundation, the Orange County Community Foundation can be a valuable partner. With extensive grant-making experience and local community knowledge, OCCF is uniquely equipped to provide a variety of services for local foundations to support their local, national or international grant-making. Learn more

The Family Foundation Alliance is a group of local family foundations committed to learning and sharing together in order to maximize their philanthropic impact. Family philanthropy is a rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging and the Family Foundation Alliance offers resources and support through connections with local foundation peers as well as foundation and nonprofit experts. Learn more

The Orange County Community Foundation’s Impact Philanthropy group was created by charitably-minded professionals and emerging leaders living and working in Orange County. Each year members have the opportunity to participate in a collaborative grant-making program with the focus determined by the group. Contributions to the granting pool are matched by OCCF up to an approved amount. Learn more

Director, Center for Engaged Philanthropy
[email protected]
(949) 553.4202 ext. 260

Keri Mesina provides customized levels of support for Signature Fund advisors and private foundations at the Orange County Community Foundation. As a member of the Center for Engaged Philanthropy team, Keri offers personalized stewardship and advisory services tailored to the interests of the donor advisor. Previously, Keri served as a senior program officer in Fifth Third Bank’s Foundation Office focusing on charitable grant making through private foundations and working with high-net worth individuals to ensure their charitable giving was effective. Keri graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in marketing and sales from Sullivan University in Lexington, Kentucky.

Philanthropic Services Officer
[email protected]
(949) 553-4202 ext. 242

Lisa Wilterink is responsible for supporting all aspects of OCCF’s donor-advised fund development and philanthropic services in the community. Prior to joining the organization in December 2011, Lisa served on the major gift team at CHOC Children’s Foundation, where she worked closely with donors and support committees. She also oversaw all aspects of resident services for Millennium Housing’s communities, serving as a liaison between residents and various community resources. Lisa is a graduate of University of California, San Diego, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in human development with a minor in teacher education.

Grants Administrator
[email protected]
(949) 553-4202 ext. 245

Rachel Donawerth joined the Orange County Community Foundation in 2018, and in her role, she administers grants and charitable distribution requests, provides specialized care for donors, and supports the Center for Engaged Philanthropy team. Throughout her life, Rachel has volunteered with many nonprofits on a local, national, and international level, and deeply values serving those around her every day. Rachel currently volunteers with a variety of local nonprofits, including Compass Bible Church and the Praise Symphony Orchestra. She has a passion for helping students with special needs and veterans, as well as sharing the gift of music. Prior to this position, Rachel worked in Human Resources and Visa Support for World Horizons UK, a nonprofit in Llanelli, Wales, allowing her to bring skills in administration and donor care to this position. Rachel graduated Summa Cum Laude from Biola University with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Music and Intercultural Studies, and in May 2020, graduated with High Honors from Talbot School of Theology with a Master of Arts in New Testament.