Jim Becker

Co-Chief Executive Officer

Jim Becker has dedicated over three decades to building stronger communities and advancing equity across Contra Costa County and beyond. He joined the Richmond Community Foundation in 2005 and became its President and CEO in 2014, guiding its evolution into RCF Connects—a community foundation committed to transforming systems and uplifting underserved neighborhoods.

Jim’s leadership is rooted in collaboration, innovation, and impact. He has chaired the Ensuring Opportunity Campaign to End Poverty in Contra Costa County and serves on the Advisory Council for John F. Kennedy University’s Sanford Institute on Philanthropy. Over the years, he has led efforts that helped integrate county and nonprofit services in North Richmond and chaired the Contra Costa Tobacco Prevention Task Force, which created the first smoke-free workplace ordinance in the U.S.

Earlier in his career, Jim served as Executive Director of Delta 2000 and worked for the Minneapolis YMCA, always focusing on supporting families and children. He has shared the stage with First Lady Hillary Clinton on a children’s services panel and advised First Lady Sharon Davis on early childhood development.

Recognized as a Contra Costa County Man of Merit (2013) and recipient of the United Way’s Dream Award (2015), Jim’s work continues to inspire meaningful change.

He holds a B.A. in Anthropology from Grinnell College and an M.A. in Anthropology from the University of Minnesota. Based in Richmond, Jim continues to champion community-driven solutions that foster justice, connection, and opportunity for all.