Our FoundersThe Hellman Foundation is rooted in the generosity of Warren and Chris Hellman. They modeled a version of philanthropy based in curiosity, respect for non-profit leaders, and commitment to local communities. They were known for their eclectic generosity and willingness to commit their time and energy to causes they believed in.
Born into a prominent California family, Warren created his own enduring legacy in business, culture and philanthropy. His fortune largely self-made, Warren was known for his keen ability to identify talented people. He established two of America’s premier private equity firms and aided the creation of a large number of successful alternative investment management firms across the U.S. |
|
Warren's support for Bay Area causes and institutions is legendary. He relished solving tough challenges and believed in rolling up his sleeves to get involved. He would meet with anyone and everyone and deeply valued these personal connections. Warren actively served as Chairman of the San Francisco Foundation, Trustee of the UC Berkeley Foundation, and member of the Jewish Community Federation, among other boards and leadership committees. But he is perhaps best known as the force behind San Francisco’s beloved Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival. An avid banjo player, Warren started this annual free music festival in Golden Gate Park in 2001.
Born in London, Chris Hellman was an accomplished ballerina who danced with London’s Festival Ballet. A graceful and intelligent woman, she was the perfect partner for Warren, and a force of nature in her own right. Before developing Alzheimer's, Chris had broad philanthropic passions, with a focus on supporting local arts organizations. An artist at heart, she brought that creativity and passion to her philanthropy.
Chris served as chair of the Board of Trustees of the San Francisco Ballet from 1992 to 1999, and was a member of the board for over 25 years. In 2010, the San Francisco Ballet's Board of Trustees renamed the Ballet's building the Chris Hellman Center for Dance, in recognition of her leadership and service and named her Board Chair Emeritus at the SF Ballet.
Warren passed away in 2011, and the Hellman Foundation was founded after his death. In 2013, the Hellman Family Foundation was merged with the Hellman Foundation.
Warren and Chris modeled trust, intelligence, grit, curiosity, and fun in their philanthropic giving. The Hellman Foundation's approach incorporates and builds on these principles, taking on important causes and supporting leaders who make a difference.
Born in London, Chris Hellman was an accomplished ballerina who danced with London’s Festival Ballet. A graceful and intelligent woman, she was the perfect partner for Warren, and a force of nature in her own right. Before developing Alzheimer's, Chris had broad philanthropic passions, with a focus on supporting local arts organizations. An artist at heart, she brought that creativity and passion to her philanthropy.
Chris served as chair of the Board of Trustees of the San Francisco Ballet from 1992 to 1999, and was a member of the board for over 25 years. In 2010, the San Francisco Ballet's Board of Trustees renamed the Ballet's building the Chris Hellman Center for Dance, in recognition of her leadership and service and named her Board Chair Emeritus at the SF Ballet.
Warren passed away in 2011, and the Hellman Foundation was founded after his death. In 2013, the Hellman Family Foundation was merged with the Hellman Foundation.
Warren and Chris modeled trust, intelligence, grit, curiosity, and fun in their philanthropic giving. The Hellman Foundation's approach incorporates and builds on these principles, taking on important causes and supporting leaders who make a difference.