Toshia and Clark Struve’s story is rooted in family, community and a lifelong commitment to giving back. Toshia, whose parents both served in the military (Dad in the Army and Mom in the Navy), moved frequently as a child before settling in Carmel in1959. Clark, a third-generation Californian, grew up in Vallejo. The two met at San Jose State and were married in Carmel in 1969, just before Clark reported for active duty including a year in Vietnam. After his service, he returned to Carmel and built a successful life insurance practice that became his lifelong career. Together, they raised four children and now enjoy time with their ten grandchildren.
Clark traces his early inspiration for giving to his father, who was active in the Lions Club. He remembers spending Saturdays together collecting coins from gumball machines to support local nonprofits. “Dad’s generosity left an imprint.”
If you’re lucky enough to be able to give, you do. It feels good. If the people that can give do so, it helps everyone.
In the 1970s, the couple became involved with the Monterey Peninsula Jaycees, forming lasting friendships and deepening their commitment to service. Guided by the motto, “Service to humanity is the best work of life,” they supported projects including Boys and Girls Clubs of Monterey County campouts, Dennis the Menace Park, and the Concours d ’Elegance. Clark was also part of the group that helped launch the Pebble Beach Junior Golf Association, which continues to serve youth today.
Toshia has long given her time in personal, meaningful ways—supporting her children’s schools and showing care for others, often delivering homemade muffins and handwritten notes of appreciation to nursing staff caring for loved ones.
The couple supports a range of causes, including the Hospice Giving Foundation, Montage Health Foundation, and the Future Citizens Foundation. In 2019, they established the Struve Family Fund at the Community Foundation for Monterey County to simplify and strengthen their giving with plans to grow the fund as a vehicle for a legacy gift through their Memorandum of Charitable Intent.
They involve their children and grandchildren in recommending grants to causes that are meaningful to them. “We hope to inspire them to think about giving. It’s comforting to know that those funds will grow and continue to make grants. It’s important for our kids to see that happen,” says Clark.
They value the Foundation as a trusted partner in their philanthropy. “Giving through the CFMC is easy. We know it’s well-run for the long term. When we’re not here, we know it’s still going to be here. The Community Foundation is a real gift to the community,” he adds.
Now 80, the Struve’s continue to give with joy and intention. “If you’re lucky enough to be able to share…it helps everyone,” says Toshia. “Everything we’ve touched makes things a little better.”
