Nonprofit launches new SLO County response fund
$500,000 match doubles the impact of donor contributions
– The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County has launched Together for SLO County: A Critical Response Fund, a countywide campaign to safeguard nonprofit services threatened by steep funding cuts.
Nonprofits across the county provide food for families, shelter for people experiencing homelessness, counseling and mental health support, childcare for working parents, and healthcare access for vulnerable residents. Many of these organizations are facing budget reductions of nearly half, putting core services at risk.
“Community collaboration is what makes long-term stability possible. Together for SLO County is not just about today’s needs—it’s about protecting vital services for tomorrow,” said Christine Dawson, chief executive officer of The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County.
The campaign aims to raise $1.2 million to provide rapid support to nonprofits most at risk. A $500,000 community match is underway, doubling the impact of donor contributions. The fund also accepts complex assets such as appreciated stock, real estate through the Foundation’s Real Estate Foundation, and Qualified Charitable Distributions from IRAs.
“Funding cuts to strong local charities threaten our neighbors most in need. This initiative leverages the Foundation’s expertise to help us care for one another and keep our community strong,” said Jarrod Kiyuna, vice president of corporate development and strategy at Avila Ranch in San Luis Obispo, a corporate donor to the fund.
In addition to financial support, the fund will provide nonprofits with sustainability resources including financial planning, coaching, consultant support, and peer learning. Grants will begin rolling out in the fall. Eligibility information is available at cfsloco.org.
The fund will reach organizations serving families facing food insecurity and childcare needs, youth in foster care and young adults transitioning into adulthood, immigrant and mixed-status families, people without stable housing, residents in need of healthcare or mental health services, LGBTQIA+ community members, and populations living in poverty.
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, was founded in 1998. It has awarded more than $74 million in grants and scholarships and manages over $90 million in charitable assets.
