Frankie Poulos Foundation

CHAMPIONS OF THE ARTS

A young child smiling and looking at Santa Claus, with a banner that reads 'FRANKIE POULOS FOUNDATION believing in it. starts when you're young'.

Remembering Frankie Through a Legacy of Giving

The Frankie Poulos Foundation was created by Frankie’s family and friends in 1994, following his death the year before. Rather than let that loss define his story, his parents, Jim and Kelly Poulos, and a close circle of family and friends turned his memory into something that continues to bring opportunity and joy to young people throughout Novato.

Each holiday season, the Foundation invites friends, family, community members, and supporters near and far to become “Frankie’s Angels.” Donations collected through the annual campaign are given directly to Novato youth organizations with meaningful ties to Frankie and his family. From the beginning, the family’s goal has been to keep the money local and support organizations committed to helping Novato kids grow, learn, create, and thrive.

“Someday I hope to have a major positive influence on people and share all the love I have received with others.”
— Frankie Poulos
A green memorial monument with a brass plaque reminding viewers to remember Frankie Poulos, a member of the SMHS Class of 1992, who lived from 1974 to 1993.

A Special Connection to San Marin

San Marin Performing Arts has long held a special place in the Poulos family. Frankie’s older brother, Jim Poulos, Class of 1990, participated in the music program before going on to a professional career that included Broadway. Frankie also loved attending San Marin musical events, and the Poulos family shared a close personal connection with San Marin’s Emily Gates, who was Frankie’s godmother.

For decades, the Frankie Poulos Foundation has generously included San Marin Performing Arts among the local youth organizations it supports. Their continued giving has made them one of our Champions of the Arts sponsors and an important part of the program’s story.

Their support is more than a donation. It is part of a decades-long family connection to music, young people, and the Novato community—and a meaningful way of keeping Frankie’s memory present in the lives of new generations.

Visit the Foundation's Website
Frankie Poulos Foundation presenting Ms. McIvor and Mrs. Gates with a sponsor check.

Frankie’s parents, Jim and Kelly, presenting Ms. McIvor and Mrs. Gates with a sponsor check on behalf of the Frankie Poulos Foundation.