For Alice and Doug Diamond, philanthropy was never simply about making a donation. It was about investing in people, expanding their understanding of the world, and creating opportunities for others. Throughout their lives, they sought to leave the world better than they found it.
Over the years, Alice and Doug became known for their thoughtful support of organizations working to strengthen communities both locally and globally. Guided by values of equity, opportunity, lifelong learning, and human dignity, they invested in causes spanning health, education, social justice, arts and culture, civic engagement, and international development. Their giving reflected a simple but powerful belief that every person matters, and each of us has a role to play in creating a better future for children and families, today and for generations to come.
PRACTICING GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP
That belief was reinforced by a shared passion for exploring the world. Together, Alice and Doug traveled to more than 160 countries over the course of their lives, seeking to understand different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. Those experiences deepened their conviction that, despite our differences, people everywhere share many of the same hopes and dreams: healthy families, thriving communities, and better opportunities for those they love.
The Diamonds were introduced to Global Communities by fellow donor and longtime friend Norm Hapke. They immediately connected with our community-led approach and breadth of work. Reflecting on that first connection, Alice shared: “What resonated most is the way Global Communities addresses the interconnected challenges facing children, families, and communities, aligning with many of the causes we have always championed.”
From health and education to women’s empowerment, economic opportunity, and clean water, the Diamonds felt a profound responsibility to use their resources and influence to affect positive change in San Diego and worldwide.
Their first glimpse into Global Communities’ work came during a visit to Nicaragua, where they met women participating in financial savings groups, learned about economic empowerment initiatives, and saw firsthand how access to clean water was transforming daily life for families. What they witnessed was not charity imposed from the outside, but communities leading their own solutions. That experience became the foundation of a lasting partnership.
“We really want to demonstrate the inherent worth of every individual in the world and how we are all interconnected.”
– Alice Diamond
PHilanthropy in action
Over the years, Alice and Doug sought opportunities to visit Global Communities programs wherever their travels took them, including Guatemala and India. They met women building businesses, families accessing vital services, and communities creating sustainable change from the ground up. Their commitment also extended close to home in San Diego, where they supported maternal health and youth empowerment programs that create opportunities for local children, youth, and families. Through these experiences, they observed time and again that meaningful progress happens when local people have the tools, resources, and agency to shape their own future.
Their generosity extended far beyond financial support. Alice and Doug were deeply engaged philanthropists who believed in asking questions, building relationships, visiting programs, and learning alongside the organizations they supported. Whether championing scientific research, supporting libraries and cultural institutions throughout San Diego, investing in community initiatives, or funding international development efforts, they approached each partnership with curiosity, compassion, and a determination to make an intentional and enduring impact.
For decades, the Diamonds pursued this work side by side. Doug’s passing last year marked the loss of an extraordinary philanthropist, world traveler, and advocate for communities around the globe. Yet the principles that guided their giving continue to shape Alice’s leadership and stewardship, ensuring that the values they shared remain a force for good.
Alice says the goal she and Doug always held was simple: “To leave the world a better place than we found it.”
We are honored to be part of Alice and Doug’s philanthropic journey. Their story shows what is possible when generosity is paired with thoughtful engagement and purposeful action. While Doug is dearly missed, the legacy they built lives on through Alice’s unwavering commitment to the causes they championed and an abiding belief in our shared humanity. In her words, “We really want to demonstrate the inherent worth of every individual in the world and how we are all interconnected.”
Partners for Good is an occasional series showcasing the extraordinary individuals, corporations, organizations, and subsidiaries who are integral to our mission at Global Communities. Their unique expertise, generous investments, and collaborative spirit are instrumental in driving positive change around the world. Together, we’re working to build what tomorrow needs — right now.