Recent community disasters such as COVID, flooding, fires and heat waves have heightened awareness in the community of the diversity of San Luis Obispo County’s population. Heightened discussions over immigration policy and enforcement have also increased the need to learn more about the complexities of our immigrant population. This is primarily a report on immigrants in our County, not the immigration system or issues at the border.
Without knowing who our neighbors are, we cannot have a welcoming, healthy and prosperous community. With immigrants underrepresented in official surveys like the U.S. Census, essential data on this community’s characteristics and needs remain limited, making it difficult to address their specific challenges effectively.
This study, released in January 2025, consolidates data from various sources to support policymakers, nonprofits, and other local organizations in understanding the composition, challenges, and needs of the immigrant community in San Luis Obispo County. Key issues covered include housing, healthcare, legal support, education, economic stability, and family services.
A condensed summary of the report can be accessed here.
The Spanish version of this summary report can also be accessed here.
We celebrate our dear friend Paul Wolff as he turns 95 on December 27, 2024. His life has been full of adventure, challenges, and incredible purpose. Please read along and enjoy a small blip of his very full and meaningful life.
Paul Wolff, Professor Emeritus of Architecture at Cal Poly State University, has an incredible life story. Paul was born in 1929 in Hamburg, Germany to Jewish parents. After his father’s arrest during Kristallnacht in 1938, young Paul and his family fled Nazi occupation to London, England in 1939. Fortunately, as the political climate grew more volatile, they were able to secure 30-day transatlantic crossing and landed in San Francisco on August 1, 1939 – only 30 days before the start of WWII in Europe.
In the 1950’s, Paul was drafted into the US Army and served in Europe. After his service, the GI Bill of Rights enabled him to enroll in the graduate program of architectural studies at The Academy of Fine Arts in Munich. After graduation, he began his architecture career working with renowned architect Richard J. Neutra in Los Angeles and later started his own architecture practice in Palo Alto. In 1971, Paul began teaching Architecture at Cal Poly State University. It was during this time at Cal Poly that he began to recognize the need for accessibility in architectural design, partly due to the effects of his sister’s advancing MS diagnosis.
After earning his master’s degree in Environmental Psychology from the University of Surrey in Guilford, England, Paul retuned to Cal Poly where he introduced Environmental Psychology and Universal Design into the School of Architecture’s curriculum. In July of 1990, architectural accessibility finally became a national requirement as the American Disability Act (ADA) was passed into law. After 23 years at Cal Poly, Paul retired to focus on community involvement. He and his wife Marion, who escaped from Vienna as part of the Kindertransport, continue to talk to students and groups, sharing the stories of escapes from Nazi Germany, and exploring the impact of the current violence we see in our society today, and its relationship to the evils of prejudices and discrimination. Paul worked with local activists to start Access for All, which promotes accessibility, supports advocacy work, and provides connection through The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County. He currently serves on the Access for All advisory committee
The Community Foundation aims to be a catalyst and connector for positive change in the community. We provide opportunities for donors to understand the community’s needs and experience the impact of their philanthropy. We review data, research trends and collect feedback from our nonprofit partners. Our donor education series, affectionately called “In Our Backyard,” offers you a chance to expand your knowledge and awareness about the happenings in your local community. You’ll hear from industry experts in a panel forum and engage in a lively Q&A with the audience. We design topics around various issues, including the arts and culture, environment, vulnerable populations, health and human services, education, and more.
The Spring 2024 topics include Mental Health and Families Under Pressure. The Fall sessions will be announced soon.
Event Recap: We held the first In Our Backyard event in March, focusing on the crucial topic of mental health. It aimed to elevate our understanding of adults, children, and their families living with a mental health diagnosis. We heard from experts Jill Bolster-White and Roberto Cueva from the Transitions-Mental Health Association, as well as Kamela Proulx from the Atascadero High School Wellness Center. We learned about the increased mental health needs of youth in our community, the breadth of programming now available to help address the increased needs, and where the gaps in services exist. We were encouraged to learn of the Central Coast Hotline, our community’s only 24/7, 365-day free, confidential mental health guidance, crisis, and suicide prevention line. Please consider adding the hotline to your phone and sharing it with others at 1-800-783-0607.
Additional Mental Health Information:
The California Healthy Kids Survey is an excellent resource for data on student mental health. You can access their Data Dashboard by clicking here.
As we eagerly welcome the arrival of spring, it brings with it a sense of renewal and anticipation for the vibrant days ahead. Just as nature blossoms with new life, we too find ourselves embarking on exciting developments at The Community Foundation.
In March, we devoted attention to Women’s History Month, a time to honor the remarkable women in our community who fearlessly lead nonprofits. Their dedication is a testament to the transformative impact that women continue to make in shaping our community’s narrative.
On Employee Appreciation Day, we took a moment to express our gratitude to the incredible team at The Community Foundation for their outstanding efforts, especially in light of our recent recognition as recipients of the Blue Diamond “Change Makers” award by SLO County Family-Friendly Workplaces. Their unwavering commitment and passion contribute immensely to making this organization an exceptional place to work. We celebrate each member of our team for their invaluable contributions. Learn more about our staff.
We also carry heavy hearts as we reflect on the loss of one of our own. Dr. Brendan “Ben” McAdams, a philanthropist of SLO County whose dedication and generosity leaves a lasting mark on our community. Ben’s enduring legacy echoes far and wide, touching lives and igniting inspiration. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who join us in commemorating his memory.
Looking ahead, The Community Foundation’s annual events are just around the corner. We warmly encourage you to consider joining us as an essential participant in these initiatives. Your support ensures the success of these events and strengthens our collective impact.
Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our mission. Together, we look forward to a bright season of growth, appreciation, and community connection.
~Heidi McPherson, CEO Community Foundation San Luis Obispo
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Leila Dufurrena
leila@cfsloco.org
805-543-2323
URGENT: The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo Disaster Support Fund Has
Been Activated to Aid Californians Affected by Recent Storms
San Luis Obispo, CA, 2/8/24 – The Community Foundation and Board of Directors have
swiftly activated the Disaster Support Fund following the recent storms that have
impacted the local community and throughout the state. This Fund, designed to provide
a responsive and efficient channel for financial aid during natural disasters, is now
actively engaged in supporting relief and recovery efforts statewide.
Points of Action:
● Emergency Relief Focus: The Disaster Support Fund channels funds directly to
nonprofit organizations actively engaged in on-the-ground relief efforts across
California.
● Assessing Need: The Community Foundation’s dedicated team is actively
monitoring the evolving needs of communities statewide, ensuring that
resources are directed where they are most urgently required.
● Streamlined Approach: The Community Foundation proactively engages with key
nonprofits aligned with their mission, streamlining support processes to ensure
efficient resource allocation.
● Social Media Broadcast: Stay informed and share resources through The
Community Foundation posts on Facebook and LinkedIn. Your “shares” can
make a significant impact in reaching those in need.
Ways to Support:
● Donations: Contribute to the Disaster Support Fund online at
www.cfsloco.org/funds/disaster-support-fund-2/. Administrative fees have been
waived to ensure immediate and maximum assistance to the most vulnerable
neighbors.
We stand united as Californians in these challenging times; your support will make a
meaningful impact on the path to recovery.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Leila Dufurrena, Director of Philanthropy
leila@cfsloco.org
805-543-2323
For the latest updates on news and events from The Community Foundation, visit
www.cfsloco.org/news-and-events
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About The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo:
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit
organization created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County to provide local
charitable giving. Since 1998, The Community Foundation has awarded over $70 million
in grants and scholarships to nonprofit partners and local students. The Foundation’s
charitable assets under management have grown to $71.5 million to provide support to
all areas of our community in perpetuity. Learn more at https://www.cfsloco.org/.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA – The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is proud to welcome two new members to its Board of Directors, Thomas J. Sherman and Shelly Higginbotham. Both Sherman, a seasoned community banking executive and commercial lender, and Higginbotham, a multifaceted leader with experience across diverse community sectors, have joined the Board as the foundation unveils its ambitious five-year strategic plan.
“We are honored these deeply knowledgeable and respected individuals have committed to joining the Foundation’s board,” says Heidi McPherson, CEO of The Community Foundation. “Their wealth of experience and insight will support our mission to inspire philanthropy and serves as a catalyst and connector for community impact.”
About CFSLOCO’s New Board Members: Thomas J. Sherman
Thomas Sherman rejoins the Board of Directors, bringing his valuable expertise back to The Community Foundation after previously serving from 2014 to 2019. Now retired after nearly three years as Executive Director of the San Luis Obispo County Housing Trust Fund, Sherman previously served as a community banking executive and commercial lender in San Luis Obispo County for a combined 43 years.
During his banking career, Sherman was associated with some notable local community banks including Mid-State Bank, First Bank of San Luis Obispo, Coast National Bank, Founders Community Bank, and Premier Valley Bank.
Over the years, Sherman has devoted his personal time to enriching the lives of those in our community by serving in both Board and Committee leadership positions with several non-profit organizations throughout San Luis Obispo County. Those non-profit organizations have included the Women’s Shelter program, the Women’s Shelter Endowment Trust, the Friendship School Handicapped Adult program, the Housing Authority of San Luis Obispo, Wilshire Health and Community Services, and The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County.
Sherman is a graduate of California Polytechnic State University, the California Bankers Association Intermediate Banking School at the University of San Diego, and the Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the University of Delaware.
Shelly Higginbotham
Shelly Higginbotham brings an extensive and diverse background in community service and leadership roles. Her deep-seated dedication to the foundation is evident through years of volunteer service encompassing grants and donor engagement committees as well as the Women’s Legacy Fund, a fund held at The Community Foundation.
Shelly has been an integral part of the San Luis Obispo Child Development Center, is the Former Board President and member of the 5 Cities Homeless Coalition, and is actively engaged with the League of Women Voters of SLO. She has briefly served as a board member for French Hospital Foundation Board and for People’s Self Help Housing, where she is currently board chair. With six years spent serving on the Pismo Beach City Council, including a successful term as Mayor, Shelly brings invaluable experience in governance and community advocacy.
Leadership transitions for 2024 involve the appointment of Kath Tompkins as the incoming Board Chair and Rick Williams assuming the role of Vice Chair. To view the full Board of Directors visit https://www.cfsloco.org/about-us/board-of-directors/.
With hundreds of active nonprofits in San Luis Obispo County, there are many options available for giving during the Holiday Season that will ensure your tax-deductible contributions support our community. The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is here to simplify your year-end giving. Let us be your guide — we’ll handle the research, starting with these tips you can use to maximize the benefits of supporting your community.
Use a Donor Advised Fund (DAF):A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) opens up the world of philanthropy to donors who want to address community needs in San Luis Obispo County and beyond. You can enjoy full tax deductions now and contribute to the fund as frequently as you like, and then recommend grants to your favorite nonprofit organizations whenever it makes sense for you.
If you already have a fund held at The Community Foundation, you can easily recommend a distribution to the charity of your choice. For grants you wish to distribute in 2024, please contact donorservices@cfsloco.org before December 16. This is the preferred date to submit recommendations to provide the best chance of grantees receiving funds before December 31. Use your IRA for Charity: Contributing from your IRA directly to The Community Foundation is an easy way to reduce your tax burden and make a gift to support multiple causes that are meaningful to you. The transfer must be to a qualified exempt nonprofit and may be for a designated purpose or field of interest fund. Make sure to contact your financial advisor for more information.
Gifts of Cash: You can donate to The Community Foundation directly by check, with cash, through our website, or however is easiest for you. You can trust us to help direct your contribution to a cause in SLO County or beyond. Gifts of Stock: Donating appreciated stock offers you a way to support causes you care about while potentially enjoying a more cost-efficient deduction based on the current market value, not just what you originally paid. If your stocks have grown significantly since you bought them, donating them directly to a nonprofit like us can provide you with a deduction for their current value while bypassing taxes on potential gains. This means more of your contribution goes towards making a difference in our community.
Gifts of Property or Land: Donating real estate is a powerful way to fulfill your charitable aspirations while maximizing your tax benefits within legal boundaries. There are many ways that you can gift property to receive tax benefits and maximize your estate planning. The Community Foundation has established the Real Estate Foundation of San Luis Obispo County specifically for property gifts to alleviate property upkeep concerns, sales, insurance, and taxes for you and your family.
Your donations shape our community’s future. Partner with us to make a difference that lasts beyond the holiday season. Reach out to Donor Services at donorservices@cfsloco.org for personalized assistance.
**The tips and information shared here are for educational purposes only and should not be considered official financial advice. We encourage readers to seek personalized guidance from a certified financial advisor for their specific financial needs.**
The Community Foundation will continue processing grants and issuing payments through the end of the year, but external factors such as delayed postal service or organizations closing offices for holidays, can impact when grantees receive funds. As a reminder, there is no tax implication for donors when grantees receive Foundation funds.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA – SLO Access for All, a field of interest fund at The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, is joining the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy in recognizing National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), an annual awareness campaign that takes place each October. The purpose of NDEAM is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. This year’s theme is “Advancing Access and Equity.”
SLO Access for All will host a virtual mixer to discuss NDEAM and employment access and equity in San Luis Obispo County Monday, October 30, at 5 p.m. The Zoom link can be acquired through registering at Meeting Registration – Zoom or by reaching out to SLO AFA via Facebook or The Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County. Employers are encouraged to attend to gain a better understanding of the current landscape for workers with disabilities in San Luis Obispo County, and how their business can support advancing access and equity as well as learn about resources offered through the California Department of Rehabilitation.
The history of NDEAM traces back to 1945, when it started as a week-long acknowledgement and focused only on people with physical disabilities. Later, it expanded to the full month of October, and its name and scope evolved to acknowledge the importance of increasing the workforce inclusion of people with all nature of disabilities.
“Our communities and economy are strengthened by the inclusion of all people, including people with disabilities,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Disability Employment Policy Taryn M. Williams. “Their contributions have historically been vital to our nation’s success and are more important today than ever. We must build an accessible, equitable economy that fully includes the talent and drive of those with disabilities.”
In 2023 NDEAM honors the 50th anniversary of passage of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the first federal legislation to address access and equity for people with disabilities, and a precursor to the more comprehensive Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
“SLO Access for All is proud to be a part of this year’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month,” said Sarah Flickinger, Co-chair of the SLO AFA Fund Committee. “We want to spread awareness, start conversations and encourage increased access, equity and belonging for all employees in San Luis Obispo County.”
The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR), the nation’s largest vocational rehabilitation and independent living programs administrator, is also celebrating NDEAM this month. DOR offers EmployABILITY grants, human resources training, and collateral and additional resources through its Demand Side Employment Initiative.
“We would love to introduce more local employers to some of the programs that are available to support increased access to employment for people with disabilities,” said Flickinger. “That’s why we’re offering a virtual mixer with space for all who want to join the conversation.” SLO AFA virtual mixers include live captioning as well as phone access. Additional accommodations can be requested by contacting The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo.
Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages – during October and throughout the year – by visiting http://dol.gov/NDEAM. More information about California DOR programs for NDEAM can be found www.dor.ca.gov/Home/ndeam2023#.
SLO Access for All is a field of interest fund at The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, working and advocating for an accessible, diverse and welcoming community that values disability as diversity and encourages the full participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of SLO County life. This year the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is celebrating 25 years of making a difference through philanthropy leadership.
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2023, is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County to provide local charitable giving. Since 1998, The Community Foundation has awarded more than $66 million in grants and scholarships to nonprofit partners and local students. The Foundation’s charitable assets under management have grown to over $70 million to provide support to all areas of our community in perpetuity. Learn more at https://www.cfsloco.org/.
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY, Calif. – Organizations across San Luis Obispo County have been awarded grants totaling over $400,000 from The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County (CFSLOCO). CFSLOCO’s Board of Directors approved the distribution of 42 grants supporting agencies and individuals making a positive impact in the areas of arts, the environment, human services, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
This year, CFSLOCO extends its support to 14 new organizations that haven’t received competitive grants in the past three years, in addition to continuing its support for many returning nonprofit applicants.
“The goal of the General Grants Program has always been to provide funding for agencies that directly address community needs,” said Heidi McPherson, CEO of The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County. “We are thrilled to announce this grant cycle and extend our gratitude to these remarkable organizations for their dedication to our community.”
The grant awards are designed to provide a sense of financial stability to nonprofit organizations, with more than 78% of the unrestricted grants supporting nonprofits for the next two years. The average award amount totals over $19,000, ensuring that organizations have the resources they need to continue their vital work.
“We are always grateful to be a recipient of this award, it makes such a difference in our clients’ lives when we get to say ‘Yes!’ to requests that would typically go unfunded,” says Devon McQuade, Associate Director of 5Cities Homeless Coalition, one of this year’s grant recipients. “We so appreciate the Foundation’s continued support.”
The following grantees have been awarded in this year’s General Grants Cycle*:
AmpSurf (Association of Amputee Surfers)
NatureTrack Foundation
Foundation for the Performing Arts
Opera SLO
Paso Robles Youth Arts Center
Cambria Center for the Arts
City Farm SLO
Diversity Coalition of San Luis Obispo County
Environmental Center of SLO
FirstFruits Farm
Gala Pride and Diversity Center
Morro Bay Art Association
Senior Volunteer Services
SLO Wind Orchestra, Inc.
Central Coast State Parks Association
Ecologistics (Five Cities Repair Café and Home Front Environmental Justice, Morro Bay)
Planned Parenthood California Central Coast
Atascadero Loaves & Fishes
Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Luis Obispo County
Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County
Community Counseling Center of San Luis Obispo County
Monterey College of Law
5Cities Homeless Coalition
Child Development Resource Center of San Luis Obispo County
El Camino Homeless Organization
Lumina Alliance
Peoples’ Self-Help Housing
Restorative Partners
SLO County UndocuSupport
South County Youth Coalition
Mr. Carlos Giovanni Ortega
Jewish Community Center San Luis Obispo
Long Term Care Ombudsman Services
Basin Street Regulars – Central Coast Hot Jazz Society
Morro Bay Senior Citizens, Inc
Santa Margarita Area Seniors Citizens Club
Santa Maria Valley Senior Citizen’s Club
SLO Jazz Festival
*A total of 42 grants were awarded to 38 organizations and one individual.
“We are humbled and oh so grateful for the support and encouragement of our Repair Café initiatives here in SLO County,” says Linda Busek, Co-Founder and Chief Evangelist of the Five Cities Repair Café, which recently launched the new Poly Repair Café at the Bonderson Engineering Complex at Cal Poly.
“We are deeply grateful and honored by this two-year financial commitment,” says James Statler, Executive Director of Community Counseling Center. “The timing couldn’t be more perfect, as our Student Mental Wellness Programs are in full swing, now reaching more sites than ever in collaboration with San Luis Coastal and Lucia Mar.”
The Julian Crocker Community Scholarship Fund – held at The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County – is a community fund which pays tribute to Dr. Julian Crocker, a leader and advocate in our community for education access. The former San Luis Obispo County Superintendent of Schools has been a vocal advocate for public education and an outstanding ambassador for the community.
The fund’s mission is to make post-secondary education accessible to a broader range of San Luis Obispo County residents, irrespective of their financial circumstances.
“It is an honor to have established this scholarship fund in the
name of Dr. Julian Crocker and to recognize his leadership and
commitment to our students. We continue to build upon his legacy and his ongoing dedication to supporting students’ pursuit of higher education.” – Heidi McPherson, CEO
Through this scholarship, individuals can aspire to achieve their educational goals and create brighter futures for themselves and their community; it provides hope and support to those who may have otherwise struggled to access post-secondary education.
Who Is Eligible for the Julian Crocker Community Scholarship? San Luis Obispo residents who demonstrate financial need. It particularly favors two groups of students:
Transferring students: Those transitioning from a community college to a four-year college or university.
Career technical education (CTE) seekers: Individuals pursuing degrees or certificates in career technical education at accredited institutions.
And the best part? The more the community contributes, the more students can achieve. Every member of the community is welcomed to contribute to this scholarship, making a direct and positive impact on the educational journey of our future leaders.
Join us in celebrating the legacy of Dr. Julian Crocker and the promise of a brighter, more educated future for San Luis Obispo County. Your support, no matter how big or small, brings us one step closer to a more inclusive, vibrant, and educated community for all.
Thomas J. Sherman
Shelly Higginbotham
