Our Work - Kenneth Rainin Foundation

Our Work

​​The Kenneth Rainin Foundation supports Bay Area artists, Oakland’s youngest learners and Inflammatory Bowel Disease research worldwide.

Interdependence, creativity and equity are at the heart of what we do. We embed principles of equity in every aspect of our work. Our core program grants support Bay Area artists to thrive, Oakland children to read and succeed, and innovative research to improve the lives of people with Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Funding Areas

The Foundation’s three giving areas are Arts, Education and Health. Explore our funding strategies and initiatives.

Arts

Our Arts Program supports diverse, visionary Bay Area artists working in dance, film, theater and public space.

Education

Our Education Program supports early childhood education to ensure that Oakland children have the literacy skills to communicate, learn and thrive by third grade.

Health

Our Health Program provides early support for innovative research ideas that can lead to improvements in preventing, diagnosing and treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

What We’re Learning

 The Kenneth Rainin Foundation reports on our progress and shares what we are learning so others can build on that knowledge and amplify its impact.

Foundation News & Stories

Image of Lorena Gomez-Barris, a Latina woman with long, curly black hair. She’s smiling at the camera, wearing a green blouse and long necklace.
Lorena Gomez-Barris Steps Into A New Role

03/18/2026 | Blog Foundation News

The Foundation announced the promotion of Lorena Gomez-Barris to a newly created role, Director of Administration and Workplace Experience

Arrows in the Rainin Foundation's brand color palette converging.
Resources To Support Nonprofits In The Current Landscape

02/05/2026 | Blog

The Rainin Foundation has compiled resources to help our grantees manage the evolving landscape and continue their vital work.

photo of Shelley Trott
Highlighting Philanthropy’s Role In Transforming This Moment

02/04/2026 | Foundation News

Shelley Trott, Executive Director, shares how the moment we are in sets the stage for a “Third Founding” that centers human dignity, agency and possibility.

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