Our Mission
The Alameda County Fair Foundation’s mission is to expand opportunities for youth engagement, create educational programs, and fund capital projects that will strengthen the viability and relevancy of the Fair for future generations.
Our Vision
For more than 100 years, Alameda County Fairgrounds has played an integral role in the preservation, promotion, and advancement of Alameda County’s rich agricultural heritage. The Fair Foundation aims to drive youth engagement with agriculture through innovative, technology-based educational programs and facilities.
Our First Project: The Farm
Imagine a modern working farm on the Alameda County Fairgrounds: fruits and vegetables; livestock and pollinators; labs, kitchens, and Agriculture Technology. As a year-round field trip destination, The Farm will integrate living features with a state-of-the-art education center.
The Alameda County Fair Foundation is striving to bring this extraordinary resource to our community.
Help Us Build the Farm
Your donation to the Alameda County Fair Foundation supports capital projects and agricultural education programs. The Alameda County Fair Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Please consult your tax advisor regarding the possibility of tax benefits; we cannot give tax advice.
Dedication opportunities are now available for the first phases of The Farm. Contact foundation@alamedacountyfair.com to discuss major gifts or opportunities for naming rights.
Become a Fair Foundation Heritage Member
The Fair Foundation’s Heritage Membership was developed for people who are committed to the mission of the Foundation. Your yearly contribution supports the future of the Fairgrounds and the Foundation’s first project, The Farm.
In appreciation for your commitment, Heritage Members receive exclusive gifts and membership benefits. Visit our Heritage Membership page to learn more or join today.
The Foundation Board
Executive Board
Paul Banke – President
Rose Johnson – Vice President
Joe Johal – Secretary
Patrick O’Brien – Treasurer
2024 Board Members
Allen Aldrich
Merry Carter
Doug Dahlin
Aisha Knowles
Paul Martin
Bob McManus
George Pacheco
Bob Silva
Bill Wheeler
Robin Wilma
Founding Funders
Allen Aldrich
Fair Board Director
Paul Banke
Foundation President
Faye Cater
Former Executive Director
Doug Dahlin
Chairman, Dahlin Group
Dawna Dowdell-Dos Santos
Fair Board Director Emeritus
Gordon Galvan
Former President, Fair Board
Patsy Gilbert
Lifetime Fair Advocate
Jerome Hoban
CEO, Alameda County Fair
Joe Johal
Rose Johnson
Fair Board Director
Nick Nicora
Patrick O’Brien
CFO, Leisure Sports Inc
George and Lynn Pacheco
Fair Board Director
Bob Silva
Fair Board Director Emeritus
Tim Weaver
President, Fair Board
Eric P. Wente
Chairman, Wente Vineyards
Bill Wheeler
CEO, Black Tie Transportation
Robin Wilma
Fair Board Director
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