The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County was founded in 1998 by local leaders who believed in the enduring generosity of this place we call home. They envisioned a permanent charitable resource created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County that would steward local gifts, strengthen nonprofits, and respond to the needs of our community for generations to come.

Nearly three decades later, that vision continues to guide us.

We are a trusted partner for philanthropy and a catalyst for community impact. Through the generosity of donors, families, and organizations across the county, we steward charitable funds that support every corner of our region, from education and the arts to housing, animals, health, the environment, and economic opportunity.

We believe San Luis Obispo County can be a thriving, inclusive haven where every person, regardless of background, feels seen, respected, and empowered to participate fully in community life. Working alongside donors and nonprofit partners, we help create pathways for opportunity, nurture bold ideas, and invest in solutions that strengthen our shared future.

Since our founding, we have granted more than $80 million to over 2,600 nonprofit organizations and 1,600 local students. Today, we steward over $100 million in charitable assets, resources entrusted to us to serve our community not just today, but for generations to come.

We exist because this community believes in taking care of one another.

Whether you are exploring a charitable fund, planning a legacy gift, supporting a scholarship, or responding to emerging community needs, we are here to help you turn generosity into lasting impact.

Together, we are shaping a future where all who call San Luis Obispo County home can flourish.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation inspires philanthropy and serves as a catalyst and connector for community impact.

Our Vision

We envision San Luis Obispo County to be a thriving, inclusive, and equitable region supported through community generosity.

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