The Future Brings
Shape What
In Filipino, bahala na is about stepping forward, trusting that courage and community will carry you through. At Bahala, that means neighbors meeting, ideas growing, and Santa Monica families connecting through great events and programs.
Your gift makes it possible to:
Host free family events and cultural programs in and around Santa Monica.
Keep our neighborhood calendar and guides free for residents and organizations.
Provide resources and partnership opportunities for local programs.
Shape how the story is written by building a stronger, more connected Santa Monica.
Let’s see what happens!
Dear Neighbor,
At Bahala, we believe the best solutions to tough challenges are found close to home. Our mission is simple: to help neighbors collaborate and have fun together. In a world where global platforms flood us with noise, our vision is to grow lasting local solutions to the most timely local issues, right here in Santa Monica.
In our first year, that vision came to life through programs that sparked connection and creativity. Playground Playdates brought families together, and we’re now partnering with PTAs to share toolkits and resources for Year 2. Student Pathways piloted project-based learning and community service opportunities, giving students hands-on experiences. Coffee & Connections proved that a casual meetup is all it takes to start exciting new projects, and Gardening Club helped friendships sprout between young and old alike.
Your support makes this possible. Every donation and partnership helps neighbors work side by side, planting ideas, growing programs, and clearing away the clutter that gets in the way. Together, we can keep our community thriving and our connections growing in ways only a local effort can achieve.
— Team Bahala
Mission
Help neighbors collaborate and have fun together.
Vision
Lasting local change powered by people and technology.
Coffee, bagels, and neighbors. Sometimes the simplest meetups make the biggest difference.
Partnerships in action: Rediscover Center workshops make creativity and community come alive.
New Ideas, New Connections
Bahala is growing by adding staff, raising funds, and building stronger systems so local programs can thrive. We’re keeping what works, setting aside what doesn’t, and testing bold new ideas that could become the next neighborhood tradition.
Student Pathways
Expanding into community service and mentorship opportunities that connect students to real-world experiences.
Coffee & Connections
Adding guest speakers and activities to spark new conversations and fresh perspectives.
Incubator
Providing members with expert feedback and support to grow their ideas into action.
Civic Bites
Hosting evening gatherings that bring neighbors together for accessible, engaging conversations on civic life.
Local Solutions
Bahala’s first year proved that when neighbors work together, small ideas can spark real change. Now we’re building on that foundation by expanding programs and opening the door to new partnerships. Our 1-Year Anniversary presentation highlights the progress so far and the opportunities ahead to invest in Santa Monica’s community infrastructure.
Ways to Give
Monetary Donations
Every dollar helps us continue our work.
In-Kind Donations
Supplies, tools, and materials are always welcome.Corporate Sponsorships
Partner with us to make a lasting impact.Additional Ways to Give
For gifts of stock, ACH transfers, planned gifts, and corporate matching please contact Deb Burgin at deb@bahala.org.
Bahala donations are tax deductible!
We’re counting on you!
Supporting Bahala is an investment in the quality of life in Santa Monica and surrounding communities.