Yafonne Chen

Yafonne Chen is a highly experienced development professional with a robust background in nonprofit fundraising, grant writing, and program development. Currently serving as the Foundations & Government Relations Officer at SFJAZZ, Yafonne has successfully developed mission-driven programs and funding portfolios since founding Y Chen & Associates in 2017. Previous roles include Institutional Giving Manager at The Health Trust, where over $15 million in funding was secured, and Institutional Giving Officer at Montalvo Arts Center, recognized for cultivating high-profile funders and proposing over 30 grant applications. As Executive Director of SF World Music, Yafonne cultivated significant funding and streamlined operations for the organization. Prior editorial experience includes serving as Editor in Chief at Dancers Group and a Contributing Writer for Asian Week. Yafonne holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Stanford University.