Governance Structure

To fulfill the family's philanthropic objectives, the Sobrato's have created two separate entities: a private independent foundation called The Sobrato Family Foundation formed in 1996, and a public charity legally named The Sobrato Foundation formed in 2004 that is a supporting organization of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation.

Each entity is governed by its own Board of Directors although the two entities share grantmaking, program and administrative resources and operate by the same set of values and guiding principles.

Sobrato Family Foundation
The Board of the Sobrato Family Foundation (a private independent foundation) is governed by seven trustees, six of which are Sobrato family members.

The Foundation's grantmaking programs and organizational operations are supported by a six-person professional staff. Additional management assistance is provided by Berliner - Cohen (Attorneys), Frank, Rimerman & Co. (Accountants), The Northern Trust Company (Investment Custodian) and the accounting staff of The Sobrato Organization.

The Sobrato Foundation
The Board of the Sobrato Foundation (a public charity) is comprised of John A. Sobrato representing the Sobrato family and Greg Avis and Peter Hero representing the Silicon Valley Community Foundation.

In-Kind program and operational support is provided by the staffs of The Sobrato Family Foundation and The Sobrato Organization. Additional program and operational assistance is provided by Opportunity Fund and the Silicon Valley Community Foundation.

Guiding Principles

The Foundation's work is guided by the following principles:

We approach our work with appreciation and gratitude
We respect hard work and commitment
We honor integrity and genuineness
We actively engage in causes that we are passionate about
We enjoy celebrating life together