Ernie and Gunde Posey have shaped their philanthropy around a shared belief in expanding opportunity. Ernie grew up in Altadena, California, attended Pasadena City College, and transferred to Harvard University, where he earned a degree in American History. After graduation, he moved to Europe to help grow the JT Posey Company, a medical supply business founded by his father. It was there, in Denmark, that he met Gunde in 1980. Married 44 years, they raised two sons and have called Pebble Beach home since 2014.
After selling the business and retiring in 2017, the Poseys established the Posey Family Foundation with two goals: “To support compassionate care for those in need and to create opportunities for those who will in turn give back to the community,” shares Ernie.
Their giving began internationally and continues to have a global reach. They support organizations such as Heifer International, One Acre Fund and Charity: Water, as well as hospitals serving vulnerable populations. They have traveled to Africa and India to see firsthand how their contributions are improving lives, an experience that has deepened their commitment to thoughtful, effective giving.
We’ve been so fortunate. We enjoy giving back and watching the ripple effect. We like to make gifts that help people now and in the future.”
The couple also invest in education and workforce development. At Pasadena City College, Ernie’s alma mater, they were recognized by the Osher Foundation in 2025 as “California Community College Philanthropist of the Year” for their impact in supporting nursing students through scholarships, low-interest loans and financial literacy training.
Here in Monterey County, the Poseys work closely with the Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC) to identify regional priorities. Guided by the CFMC’s expertise, they’ve supported a wide range of community needs through efforts like the COVID 19 Relief Fund and make grants to local causes they care deeply about. They are enthusiastic supporters of Monterey County Gives!, appreciating the vetting of participating nonprofits and the added impact of matching funds. Over the years, they have contributed to dozens of organizations through the campaign and have been generous supporters of the overall match.
a trusted partner
The couple see the Foundation as more than a channel for their philanthropy. They view the CFMC as a trusted partner in understanding local needs and directing their giving where it matters most.
Ernie notes, “The Community Foundation is a trustworthy partner who helps us find local nonprofits that support worthy goals and make a difference.” He adds, “We appreciate their help in finding groups we can believe in who are doing good work in our community.”
The Poseys are also committed to serving others in action. Gunde volunteered for many years, from supporting schoolchildren through the Assistance League in Southern California to working with Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC) and Gathering for Women locally. Ernie continues to volunteer his time teaching reading twice a week at BGCMC.
They lead by example within their own family, passing on their values of generosity and service to their two sons, who give to causes meaningful to them.
