About Us ->History July 4, 2008 Mission History Board of Directors Staff History 1889-1963 - One man impacts an entire community. Nat Goldsmith lived out the American dream in service and gratitude. He was born to immigrant parents, moved to San Antonio at an early age, earned an education and went into business for himself. Never forgetting the importance of giving back, Nat contributed to his community in many selfless ways – in the Jewish community he loved; the Chamber of Commerce he led as president; the Community Chest (now the United Way) of which he was a founding member; the City-County Tuberculosis Control Board of which he was a founder; the commission he chaired that zoned San Antonio; the Good Government League he helped organize and numerous other causes that benefited from his business acumen, vision for the future and generosity.  'Service is the rent we pay for our place on earth...' "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. It has been said, ‘Service is the rent we pay for our place on earth,' ...and I am convinced now that in paying that so-called rent we are amply repaid for our service in happiness and pleasant memories that linger for many years." --Nat Goldsmith (1889-1963) 1964 - The San Antonio Area Foundation is established. Mannie Goldsmith was so inspired by the life of his brother, Nat Goldsmith that he wanted to create a memorial to honor Nat's vision, compassion, and love for his community. Mannie established the Nat Goldsmith Memorial Trust as the founding trust that would inaugurate the San Antonio Area Foundation and provide for its initial funding. That first year, the fund had total assets of $21,019 and distributed $868 to charitable causes. 2004 - Celebrating 40 years in San Antonio. By 2004, the San Antonio Area Foundation had grown to over $110 million in assets and $65 million in charitable distributions – a fitting tribute to Nat and Mannie Goldsmith, whose philanthropic vision inspired the Area Foundation – spurring growth and support for the arts, humanities, education, health and environment throughout San Antonio, Bexar County and the surrounding area.