On April 25, 2017, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to adopt the Charter for Compassion, following a recommendation from the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council (SiVIC) and community advocates. The resolution reflects the County’s commitment to placing empathy, respect, and understanding at the center of public life.

Supervisor Dave Cortese, who sponsored the resolution, emphasized that compassion is more than a value—it is a practical foundation for stronger, safer, and more connected communities.

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Santa Clara County is home to nearly 2 million residents, representing one of the most diverse populations in the United States. From the bustling innovation corridors of San Jose and Mountain View to the agricultural richness of South County, Santa Clara County’s commitment to compassion bridges cultures, faiths, and communities.

By joining the global network of nearly 600 Compassionate Communities in 55 countries, Santa Clara County reaffirms its role as a leader in civic engagement and moral imagination. Its adoption of the Charter underscores a shared belief that compassion is not a sign of weakness, but a measure of true strength—and that collective empathy can transform how we live, lead, and serve one another.

The Charter for Compassion celebrates Santa Clara County’s leadership and looks forward to ongoing collaboration with local partners, including SiVIC and Compassionate California, in promoting compassion as the heartbeat of community life.