The Tanya & Charles Brandes Foundation’s work is both regional and global, and encompasses a number of diverse endeavors. After investing considerable time and resources, we have concluded that our work is most effective when directed toward select recipients in the following areas:

ARTS:

Through grants to organizations, individuals, and specific projects, the Foundation supports the visual and performing arts. A few of the organizations we have contributed to include: MCASD,  Musee de Louvre, Museum of Modern Art, San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Opera,

SCIENCE:

The Foundation supports basic research and clinical / scientific initiatives. We are proud to work with, among others, the Salk Institute for Biological Studies. HIV/AIDs research, prevention, and treatment is supported through contributions to international organizations such as the Elton John AIDS Foundation, and amfAR.  Clinical projects are accomplished through funding and training of, or personal participation in, on-site teams of medical personnel.

Charles Brandes, President Bill Clinton, and Tanya Brandes at amfAR’s Cinema against AIDS Gala during the 62nd Cannes International Film Festival in May 2009

The Foundation believes that education is the cornerstone to success. Higher levels of education are correlated with increased productivity, increased standard of living, less violence, and better health. We work with a number of regional programs both in the US and abroad, to achieve specific objectives. In California, the Foundation has established a Fellowship Program at the UCSanDiego School of Management, a merit scholarship program at the San Diego Jewish Academy, and has previously underwritten a summer internship program for high school students at the Salk Institute.

CONSERVATION & ANIMAL WELFARE

The conservation of endangered wildlife, and of their sensitive habitats, is a priority. The Foundation is currently developing conservation programs in South America and in Africa.