Founding Family Impacts
Entire Community

"For many years, I have believed that the only real and lasting happiness we get is from unselfish service – whether that service be to one’s family, to one’s friends, to one’s community or to one’s country.” - Nat Goldsmith (1889-1963)

Nat Goldsmith was gregarious, fun-loving, and a dedicated community philanthropist. The son of immigrants, Goldsmith was admired for his drive as self-made business man as well as his leadership abilities. His dedication to community involvement was apparent in the founding of the City-County Tuberculosis Control Board and the Community Chest, now the United Way. As a visionary business leader, Mr. Goldsmith was a key planner for the development of San Antonio’s Good Government League – a pioneering city-manager form of governance before the era of representative council districts became common practice. He also served as Chamber of Commerce President and provided leadership to the San Antonio Jewish Community.

In 1964, inspired by the life of his brother, Mannie Goldsmith wanted to create a memorial to honor Nat’s wisdom, compassion, and love for his community. With the help and guidance from Nat’s son Richard, Mannie established the Nat Goldsmith Memorial Trust as the founding trust for the San Antonio Area Foundation.

For over 45 years, the enduring legacy of the Goldsmith family has ensured the Area Foundation’s success. Richard Goldsmith served twice as Chairman of the Board as well as Director for 17 years. He continues today as the organization’s legal counsel, a role he has been dedicated to since the Area Foundation’s inception. As a tribute to the Goldsmiths' philanthropic vision, the Area Foundation created the Goldsmith Legacy Fund in 2004.

Today, the San Antonio Area Foundation is proud to be a leading partner in community philanthropy. Thanks to the steadfast and generous support of our donors and volunteers, the Area Foundation continues to successfully address our community’s needs and prepare for tomorrow’s challenges.