Every gift tells a story. A rescued dog finds a forever home. A family shares a warm meal they weren’t sure they’d have. A high school senior opens the acceptance letter he or she thought might never come. Across the San Antonio area, moments like these unfold every day – small gestures that add up to a year defined by a generous community spirit.  

That spirit has inspired “Gifts that Give Back,” San Antonio Area Foundation’s inaugural Holiday Giving Guide, launching in print and online in late November. The curated collection of 28 nonprofits, each selected for their promising missions and measurable community impact, invites donors to help each featured organization unlock an additional $3,000 in support this year. Together, these gifts will multiply generosity across Bexar and surrounding counties into 2026 and beyond. 

As we celebrate National Community Foundation Week (Nov. 12–18) and National Philanthropy Day (Nov. 15), we honor the generosity that makes San Antonio stronger.  

“The guide reflects what community foundations do best: connecting people who care with the causes that matter most,” says Nadege Souvenir, CEO of the Area Foundation. “Every page of ‘Gifts that Give Back’ offers a chance to see hope in action this season, and to be part of the good that’s happening all around us.” 

Organized across four impact areas — Cultural Vibrancy, Livable and Resilient Communities, Successful Aging, and Youth Success — the guide also includes opportunities to give directly to student scholarships, local journalism and impact funds. These options allow donors to support the areas of greatest need or to spark change in areas closest to their hearts. 

“We wanted to make giving both easy and meaningful,” says Lisa Brunsvold, the Area Foundation’s Chief Development Officer. “Whether you’re recommending a grant through your donor-advised fund or making a direct gift, this guide helps every donor see where their dollars can do the most good.” 

For the promising nonprofits featured in 2025’s guide, the visibility is transformational. “Community giving during the holidays helps us to do more for those in need,” says Vinsen Faris, Chief Executive Officer for Meals on Wheels San Antonio. “Meals on Wheels being featured alongside other great members of the nonprofit community is a win for all of us, as it highlights the urgent and important work we all do to make our community better.” 

Follow the  Area Foundation on social media to be among the first to explore Gifts that Give Back this holiday season! 

One community … 28 nonprofits … $3,000 each … and countless stories of hope that you help make possible. Join in the season of giving!