The Isabel Allende Foundation

Allende's novels center around the importance of women and society. Not only does Allende draw the world into viewing the role of women in society but she actually does something about the pain which women face. After the death of her daughter Paula and the publishing of the corresponding novel Allende began this foundation to help young women who are struggling.

Created on December 9, 1996, the Isabel Allende Foundation pays homage to Paula Frias, Isabel’s daughter, who passed away on December 6, 1992. The Foundation primarily supports organizations that help women and children in need, by providing education, healthcare, protection and the means to empowerment.

"When in doubt do the most generous thing"

Allende gives women power through her novels and her actions.

Created on December 9, 1996, the Isabel Allende Foundation pays homage to Paula Frias, Isabel’s daughter, who passed away on December 6, 1992.

During her short life Paula worked as a volunteer in poor communities in Venezuela and Spain offering her time, her total dedication, and her skills as an educator and psychologist. She cared deeply for others. When in doubt, her motto was: What is the most generous thing to do? The Isabel Allende Foundation was created to honor Paula’s life work, her ideals, and her compassion.

Seed funding for the foundation came from income Isabel Allende received from Paula, the best-selling book she wrote, inspired by her daughter’s life and untimely death. Since 1996, Isabel has contributed to the foundation annually. She invites and welcomes contributions from others who share her vision of a more compassionate and just world.