Genentech launched the "Genentech Goes to Town" community relations program in 1993 to support the local community by encouraging employees to get to know local businesses in the communities in which employees live and work. Genentech provides $25 in special GenenMoney to each employee during a two-week period and encourages them to support local shop owners and the continued development of the downtown business areas. The special "GenenMoney" is redeemable only at participating businesses.

In 2008, Genentech Goes to Town celebrates its 16th year in South San Francisco, 9th year in Vacaville, and its third year in Oceanside. Since the program's inception, approximately $1.7 million has been distributed to support merchants in the company's hometowns. Countless employees and more than 250 businesses in South San Francisco, Vacaville and Oceanside have benefited from the program.

The Genentech Goes to Town program is typically held in September in South San Francisco, Vacaville and Oceanside. The company also evaluates expansion opportunities on an ongoing basis in other Genentech communities.