Sara Dronkers is an accomplished leader in local philanthropy and organizational management who is passionate about community, the natural environment, and thriving youth and families. She loves relationship building, deep listening and analysis, critical thinking, and learning. Through her work, she is grateful to collaborate with the amazing people in our region coming together to make our community a better place for all. 

Sara began acting in the role of Chief Operating Officer in June 2024. With 20+ years of work experience at HAF+WRCF, she has been involved in all functions of the Foundation’s remarkable growth and performance, from grantmaking, to finance, to donor development and most recently to Chief of Staff for the last four years. Sara rises to executive management at a time in the Foundation’s history where grantmaking to the community is at record high levels, including a projected $12 million in the upcoming 2024/25 fiscal year.  

Given her many years of experience, community knowledge, and operational acumen, the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation is poised for a future filled with opportunity, guided by Sara. Her greatest hope is to live into that opportunity, enhancing the Foundation’s commitment to growing a thriving, just, healthy and equitable region.