About Us

Our Mission

Mission: To support the advancement of youth education and literacy programs that focus on teaching in a multi-sensory approach to language for low-income youth, with additional focus on the health and welfare of seniors through the support of housing, medical, food, and clothing.

To benefit both youth and seniors through philanthropic grants to non-profit organizations and individuals of all backgrounds needing financial assistance due to family instability, poverty and/or challenges adapting to the community.

Specifically the Foundation intends to financially support youth education and literacy programs that focus on teaching in a multi-sensory approach to language for low-income youth. It will assist youth who show potential through effort and academic success with scholarships at colleges and universities.

The Foundation intends to support seniors with housing needs by providing rent assistance, care assistance which may include support in the areas of medical, food, and clothing.

Our History

Pride, hope, and economic security for the elderly who are less fortunate were a part of the transformational vision of the Brethren church leaders who championed the construction and establishment of the Long Beach Brethren Manor back in 1964. Rev. Leroy Doty – President of the incorporated Brethren Manor, Willard V. Harris, Sr. ‐ Vice President, Lowell Reed‐ Treasurer, Robert Walker ‐ Secretary, Mary Swift Beeks ‐ Board member and legal counsel; Frank Howell and Homer Fike.

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1964-2014

The transformation of a 50-year footprint in Brethren Service to a new generation of philanthropic giving through the Brethren Community Foundation. Brethren Community Foundation was created through a vision of Leadership, Initiative, and Drive to ensure we were making a difference in the world.

Fifty years ago, a group of leaders in the Long Beach community had a vision to give seniors their “rightful dignity” by providing them an affordable home, a nurturing environment with quality dining, opportunities to interact with others in recreational and social activities, and transportation so they may live stress-free in the twilight of their years.

Willard V Harris, Sr., along with Rev. Leroy Doty, Lowell Reed, Robert Walker, Mary Swift Beeks, and legal counsel Frank Howell and Homer Fike, transformed this vision into reality with the construction of the Long Beach Brethren Manor back in 1964.

2021 Transition to Orange County Community Foundation Donor Advised Fund:

In 2021, it was agreed and approved that Brethren Community Foundation would transition to a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) with the Orange County Community Foundation (OCCF). OCCF now serves as the fiduciary manager of BCF funds, and the Board of Directors continue to serve as the Board of Advisors, and provide oversight for the grants and giving process as usual.