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.

Building on her distinguished career with the organization, Sara was named Chief Executive Officer after acting in the role of Chief Operating Officer since June 2024. With 20+ years of 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 to Chief of Staff. 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 the many years of experience, community knowledge, operational acumen, and deep commitment to our philanthropic work, 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.