Photo By: Chris McKiernan
FRIENDS & NEIGHBORS,
In 2024, your Foundation made significant strides in advancing our 2024-2028 strategic plan. We focused on collaboration at both local and regional levels, working alongside our partners to address the growing needs of our community. Through data-driven insights, we identified key challenges faced by our nonprofit partners, childcare services, women and girls, and immigrant communities. We explored impactful solutions to deepen our engagement and expand our reach.
We hosted "In Our Backyard" education events on mental health, seniors, and families in crisis, expanding awareness and fostering important community conversations. Our Donor Advised Fund holders joined other donors in scaling their impact, and we established new scholarships to support unique career pathways. Additionally, we revised our community grants program to better align with evolving needs.
Together, we strengthened our community through over $4.4 million in grants to organizations and scholarships for more than 100 local students. We will continue building on the momentum created in 2024 as we look ahead. With Heidi transitioning from her leadership role into retirement, we are confident that the Foundation's forward momentum will carry on, shaping a brighter future for all those we serve.
Thank you for your continued partnership.
With gratitude,
Kath Tompkins Board President
Our Mission in Action
MISSION
Why we exist
The Community Foundation inspires philanthropy and serves as a catalyst and connector for community impact.
VISION
Our chosen future
We envision San Luis Obispo County to be a thriving, inclusive, and equitable region supported through community generosity.
We feel privileged to have been able to support the family back into stable housing, and provide them with a Welcome Home basket in collaboration with The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County. -El Camino Homeless Organization, Welcome Home program
Awarded Total Organizations Served $74M
1000+
dents Awarded
1300+ Since 1998
Thank you, Heidi
A Decade of Dedication
After more than a decade of dedicated, heartfelt work, Heidi McPherson is stepping down as CEO of The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County to enter retirement. She has led with warmth and vision, transforming aspirations into meaningful change. Since she came on board, the Foundation’s grant support has nearly tripled to over $74 million—an incredible testament to her passion for this community.
But Heidi’s impact goes way beyond numbers. She launched programs like In Our Backyard to help educate and connect donors, and established the Data Center to spotlight local issues. Through wildfires, a global pandemic, and challenging times, Heidi’s steady leadership and unwavering commitment have guided the community forward, ensuring essential funding was available when it was most needed She led with quiet confidence, always thinking not just about what’s best for our community, but also about the well-being and growth of each person on the team. Whether it's offering professional advice or simply being a listening ear, Heidi’s leadership is rooted in care and compassion.
I am confident that under Heidi’s leadership, our organization has reached a position of strength that will enable us to manage this transition smoothly and effectively.
~Kath Tompkins, Board President
Reflecting on her time here, Heidi shared, “It’s been such an honor to lead this amazing foundation. I’m so proud of everything we’ve achieved together.”
Heidi leaves The Community Foundation stronger and ready for the future — for leading with heart and for making such a lasting difference.
thanks for everything, Heidi
2024 Grants & Scholarships
$4.4 MILLION AWARDED
Thanks to the incredible generosity of our partners and community members, The Foundation has delivered vital support to programs and projects that inspire progress across key sectors.
This year, we proudly supported over 200 organizations and awarded scholarships to over 100 students, helping to create lasting opportunities and meaningful change. This year’s award breakdown shows the thoughtful distribution of grants and scholarships to address diverse needs.
In the following pages, you’ll find highlights of grants and scholarships in action —showcasing the collective impact of working together to build a brighter future.
2024 Scholarships
I am beyond thankful for your unwavering support. My journey at UC Davis, from hands-on experiences with animals in Animal Science to my involvement in clubs like the Vet Aide Club and Young Cattlemen's Association, wouldn’t have been possible without it.
Thanks to the incredible support of our donors and the collective vision of our community, 2024 marked a year of remarkable growth in educational access. We introduced new scholarships, including those for students re-entering the education system for retraining, as well as for unique career pathways such as the trades and aviation. This year, we awarded more funding than ever before, with over 40% of our scholarships going to first-generation students. These scholarships not only help students achieve their academic goals but also create lasting, positive impacts on their families and communities.
2024 Yinghsia Shih Li Memorial Scholarship Recipient
Ashley Robinson
NickGray Alfred I , Catherine J , and Eleanor G Switzer Scholarship, 2022
JovanaFlores Rotary Club of Paso Robles, 2024
2024 Grants to Build Resilience Over $3,700,000
2024 Grants
This is exactly what I intended for the fund. These kids need help becoming self-sufficient, and supporting them now reduces future costs to society.
Our grants program continues to drive meaningful change across our region, empowering nonprofits that strengthen community well-being. With the steadfast support of our partners and community, we are proud to champion impactful programs and projects that span the arts, education, environmental stewardship, health and wellness, and community development.
Oneofourrecentgrantees,SanLuisObispoCounty CourtAppointedSpecialAdvocatesforChildren(SLO CASA),playsavitalroleinsupportingyouthinfoster care,providingnotonlycourtadvocacybutalso mentorshiptohelpthembuildskillsforabrighter future.Amongitsimpactfulprogramsisa mentorshipinitiativethatteacheslifeskillslikejob readiness,cooking,financialliteracy,andcareer planning preparingfosteryouthwiththetoolsthey needtonavigateadulthoodsuccessfully. Whenfundingforthiscriticalprogramfaced uncertainty,acompassionateFoundationdonor steppedforwardtoensureitscontinuation.
Theirgenerousthree-yearcommitmentguarantees fosteryouthwillhaveaccesstoresourcesand guidancethatcanchangethetrajectoryoftheirlives Thedonor’sdecisionreflectsadeeptrustinCASA’s abilitytodelivermeaningful,long-termsupportand underscoresthecommunity’ssharedbeliefin helpingvulnerableyouthovercomesystemic challenges.Thispartnershipdemonstrateshow collaborationandgenerositycansustainessential programs,reaffirmingtheimportanceofmentorship increatingopportunitiesforgrowthand independence.
— The Community Foundation Donor to CASA
SLORepertoryTheatre, 2024 general grant for Arts and Culture
ChildDevelopmentResourceCenter
general grant for Health and Human Services
Our Donors
We are profoundly thankful for the incredible generosity of our donors, who inspire progress and possibility throughout our community. This year, their support has not only fueled impactful programs but also strengthened connections and created new opportunities for growth. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for all.
We support the Growing Together Fund because we believe that everyone deserves love, respect, and equal rights Diversity and inclusivity are important in our community and makes it a stronger and happier place to live
– Johnine & Brian Talley
We support the Access for All fund because we believe they support our advocacy goals of inclusion for people with disabilities. Our grant program provides for accessible, innovative programs in our SLO county We’ve had some amazing grantees who are truly making a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities and the elderly Please help us continue this much needed outreach for 2025!
- Ruth and Ron Vasconcellos
In 2024, Anneka Scranton, a dedicated supporter and Board Member, was honored as Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year by the local Association of Fundraising Professionals at National Philanthropy Day Her leadership in supporting numerous social justice causes, UndocuSupport, and the Women's Legacy Fund has had a lasting impact As Chair of our Grants Committee, she has driven collaboration, inspired action, elevated the issues, and advocated for support. Her early participation in the UndocuSupport Fund, which has helped over 600 families, exemplifies her commitment to being a leader in the field of philanthropy. We are proud to celebrate her contributions.
$74 Million
Since 1998, our collective impact has transformed communities through local investment.
DONATE
Ways to Make a Meaningful Impact
Donor Advised Fund (DAF): Address community needs within San Luis Obispo County and beyond by creating a Donor Advised Fund. Benefit from instant tax deductions and the freedom to distribute grants with a trusted philanthropic advisor to your preferred nonprofit organizations at your convenience.
IRA Contributions: Reduce tax burden and support causes that matter to you by donating directly from your IRA to The Foundation. Contact your financial advisor to explore this option further.
Cash Donations: Support causes effortlessly through cash donations, whether by check, online, or using other convenient methods. Rest assured that your contribution will be directed to impactful initiatives in SLO County and beyond.
Stock Donations: Maximize your contribution's impact by donating appreciated stock, potentially enjoying tax benefits based on current market value. This allows you to support causes you care about while bypassing taxes on potential gains.
Property or Land Gifts: Fulfill your charitable aspirations and maximize tax benefits by donating real estate through our Real Estate Foundation. Explore various options for gifting property to make a lasting difference in our community.
Your generosity shapes the future of our community. Partner with us to create meaningful impact. Contact Donor Services at donorservices@cfsloco.org for personalized assistance and further information on how you can contribute.
Data Center
AtTheCommunityFoundation,the DataCenterisavitalresourcefor understandingandaddressingthe challengesfacedbyunderserved groupsandminorities.Byspotlighting thesepressingissues,weaimto amplifytheirvoicesandaligngiving withtheregion’smosturgentneeds.
TheDataCenteroffersresearch, analysis,andinsightsontopicslike socialequity,economicdisparities, environmentalsustainability,and healthinequities.
These resources empower donors and community members to make informed decisions that drive meaningful impact.
Visit the Data Center to see how knowledge drives action for a thriving, equitable community.
Community Impact Funds Access For All (AFA)
Access for All, a field of interest fund at The Community Foundation, advocates for equitable opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Grants help support programs like City Farm SLO’s Garden for All exemplify this mission, creating inclusive spaces with wheelchair-accessible beds and sensory gardens, where students of all abilities can grow food, build confidence, and gain independence
Building Inclusive Communities
Advancing Accessibility
In honor of the ADA's 34th anniversary, The Community Foundation partnered with Access for All and Uplift Central Coast to spotlight insights from listening sessions held earlier this year. Nearly 100 individuals with disabilities and business leaders participated, sharing their experiences and ideas. These sessions informed strategies to improve accessibility and create equitable job opportunities, which will be included in the next phase of the Regional Plan presented to the state.
Growing Together: An LGBTQ+ Fund
The Community Foundation’s Growing Together: An LGBTQ+ field of interest fund, supports LGBTQ+ educationalopportunitiesandfostersinclusivityacrossSanLuisObispoCounty.GuidedbyanAdvisory Committee of staff, Board members, and local representatives, the fund drives positive change throughcollaborationandadvocacy.
This commitment to support is reflected in a recent grant to Planned Parenthood CA Central Coast, enabling the organization to provide gender-affirming care including hormone therapy, mental healthsupport,andLGBTQ+
Building Inclusive Communities
A highlight of this year was t Pride Brunch event held Brewery in June The eve Bettergarcia, an Associate Pr and Child Development at C QCARES team focused on qu health, resilience, and joy.
Community Impact Funds
Women’s Legacy Fund
The Women’s Legacy Fund, a field of interest fund at The Community Foundation, supports initiatives that empower women and girls in our community. By supporting organizations like R.A.C.E. Matters and El Camino Homeless Organization, the fund invests in programs that promote equality, expand opportunities, and empower personal growth —creating lasting change for generations to come.
13$83,800 in Grants
What Do Women Need?
A 2024 Look at Well-Being for Women and Girls in San Luis Obispo County
Every five years, the Women’s Legacy Fund (WLF) releases its What Do Women Need? report, a comprehensive assessment of the critical issues facing women and girls in San Luis Obispo County This report, which an be found at wlfslo org, guides WLF’s strategic grantmaking by identifying the greatest needs and shaping funding priorities for maximum impact.
The 2024 report highlights three key concerns: affordable housing, child care, and healthcare. Housing remains a significant challenge, with onethird of female renters spending over half their income on rent, leaving many struggling to meet
basic needs. Child care access is equally limited, with licensed care available for only 36% of children with working parents, and costs averaging $18,000 annually for infants Meanwhile, healthcare access, especially mental health services, remains critical as many women delay care, and teen girls report rising levels of emotional distress and bullying
These insights ensure WLF’s grants target impactful solutions, from housing support to mental health and child care programs. By addressing these pressing needs, WLF works to create a community where every woman and girl has the resources to thrive.
Community Impact Funds
SLO County UndocuSupport
UndocuSupport, a field of interest fund held at The Community Foundation, is dedicated to meeting the needs of undocumented immigrants and their families on the Central Coast. Through community partnerships, it provides essential resources to help immigrant families thrive, recognizing their vital role in the strength and resilience of our community.
Immigrant Advocacy
Strategic Planning and Resource Support for Immigrants on the Central Coast
Immigrant Resource Hub & Services Guide
Over 25 local organizations, including nonprofits, government entities, and faith communities, came together to shape the SLO County Immigrant Resource Hub Implementation Plan. This initiative aims to create a one-stop shop where immigrants can access resources in their native language within a safe, welcoming space. As part of this effort, the Immigrant Services Guide was introduced to connect service providers and advocates with undocumented immigrants in need of vital resources. The guide can be accessed at www.sloundocusupport.org/immigrantservicesguide.
Finding Their Way Film Screening
In the Fall, UndocuSupport hosted a film screening at The Palm Theater in San Luis Obispo, showcasing "Finding Their Way: A Snapshot of Immigrants on the Central Coast." Presented in Spanish and Mixteco with English subtitles, the film follows an immigrant couple navigating life in a new country. The resource videos were filmed to acquaint undocumented immigrants and other vulnerable populations with local resources and services. The evening included a meet-and-greet with actors and agency representatives, providing valuable resources for immigrants and vulnerable populations Special thanks to the City of San Luis Obispo's Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and SESLOC Credit Union for supporting the event The resource videos can be found on sloundocusupport org
Countywide
Reaching Every Corner
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGHOUT SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
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2024 by the Numbers
In 2024, The Community Foundation strengthened its foundation and celebrated exciting achievements while maintaining a disciplined approach to fiscal management. Following a strategic shift in advisors and investment managers the previous year, The Community Foundation delivered another ar of exceptional financial performance, achieving significant ganizational milestones while continuing to honor its commitments to ants and scholarships.
e investment landscape in 2024 was dynamic, shaped by shifting onomic conditions and policy changes. Moderating inflation, fluctuating erest rates, growth concerns, and geopolitical challenges created a xed yet favorable environment for equities. U.S. stocks performed ceptionally well, particularly in the technology sector, driven by vancements in artificial intelligence. Bonds, meanwhile, experienced ore subdued returns overall.
Our diversified portfolios, which include both traditional and ESG-focused strategies, capitalized on these market trends, achieving a combined return of approximately 15% for the year. Additionally, our mission-related investments thrived, continuing to support low-interest loans for affordable housing developers in San Luis Obispo County.
Looking ahead to 2025, we remain optimistic. The Community Foundation is dedicated to partnering with San Luis Obispo County’s generous donor community to build on this momentum and further our mission.
Investments Held for Split Interest Agreements
Investments, Carried at Market Value
Notes Receivable & Other Assets
Property & Equipment (Net of Accumulated Depreciation)
$9,556,093
$4,580,074
$71,127,010
$421,020
$1,401,168
$87,085,365
Payables & Other Liabilities
Liabilities Under Split Interest Agreements
Funds Held for Agencies
TOTAL ASSETS TOTAL LIABILITIES NET ASSETS, END OF YEAR
$965,938
$2,110,388 $2,548,840
$5,625,166 $81,460,199
Our Founders
Thank you to the visionaries who established our Community Foundation and paved the way for our ongoing mission to create positive change in our community.
M Richard & Joyce J Andrews Foundation in honor of Carroll R Pruett, Lyn & Jim Baker, Barbara Bell, John & Barbie Butz and Family, Vicki & Howard Carroll, Paula & Chris Daman, Alison & John Delinger, John DeVincenzo, Linda & Terence Fibich, Morgan Flagg Foundation in memory of Lou & Lori Flagg, Vel & Abe Flory, Joan & Lawrence Foelker, Ann C. Freeman, Diane & Al Fritz, Patricia Gomez & Frank Seiple, Carol J. Hanna, MD & Pamela J. Lee, PhD, Walter Clay Hill, Clifford B. Holser, Perry & James Jamieson, Letha & Glenn Josephson, Dee Lacey, Lisa Kilburn Maino & James F. Maino, Ernst & Mattison, Linda & Greg McMillan, Lou & Dean Miller, Kimo Pankey, Barbara & John Patridge, Carolyn & Michael Pineau, Diane & Nick Pokrajac, Joan & Carroll Pruett, Laurie & Rob Rossi, Carol & Jerry Santens, Betty Schetzer, Carol & Warren Sinsheimer, Norma & Jim Sinton, Jane & Steve Sinton, Johnine & Brian Talley, Rosemary & Don Talley, Susan & Ke-Ping Tsao, Cindy & Karl Wittstrom
In Memory
Remembering Ben McAdams
Dr. Brendan "Ben" McAdams, a pillar of goodness in SLO County for decades, blended his medical expertise, military service, and philanthropy to leave an indeliblemarkonthecommunity
BenenrichedthecommunitythroughhisroleonTheCommunityFoundationSan LuisObispoCounty'sBoardsince2016,aswellastheRealEstateFoundationBoard and the Grantmaking Committee. Alongside Pat, his beloved wife, he supported numerous organizations, including the Foundation for Performing Arts Center, Transitions Mental Health Association, SLO Symphony and more After their daughter Kelly's passing, the McAdams family founded the Kelly A. McAdams Memorial Scholarship Fund, transforming their grief into a legacy that supports graduatinghighschoolstudents.
Ben's legacy, deeply woven into San Luis Obispo County's fabric, is a testament to theimpactofunwaveringdedicationtocommunityandphilanthropy Hiscolleagues willalwaysrememberhisquickwit,curiousmind,andboundlessenergyforraising fundsforimportantcauses
Remembering Barbara Partridge
InmemoryofBarbaraPartridge,acherishedmemberofourcommunity,wefondly rememberherremarkableimpact.Barbara’snearly50yearsofserviceleftamarkon our community Her unwavering dedication was reflected in her involvement with numerous initiatives, including Safe and Sober Graduation Night, the library volunteerprogram,andmanyothers
BarbaraandherhusbandJohnwerefoundingboardmembersofTheFoundation, andsheservedontheboardfor9years Shealsocontributedhertimetonumerous otherorganizations.
Barbara’s dedication to helping others, whether family, friends, or strangers, has madethecommunityabetterplace.Herlegacyofhardwork,kindness,andstrong presencecontinuestoshinebrightly
Thank you!
2024 STAFF MEMBERS
Heidi McPherson, Chief Executive Officer
Noah Bultman, Finance Analyst
Leila Dufurrena, Director of Philanthropy
Emily Jagger, Scholarship Manager
Michael Jones, Chief Financial Officer
Cassandra Kartashov, Director of Grants & Programs
Alysia Krupsky, Program Coordinator
Emily Narveson, Programs & Scholarships Assistant
Kristy Partlow, Finance Controller
Briana Rasmussen, Office Manager/Executive Assistant
Sheri Robesky, Philanthropy Coordinator
SPECIAL THANKS
We extend a heartfelt thanks to our donors, volunteers, committee and board members for their invaluable contributions. To our nonprofit partners across the county, we deeply appreciate your tireless dedication to serving those most in need. It’s a privilege to stand alongside you and support your impactful work A special thanks also goes to Big Red Marketing for making this annual report possible
2024 BOARD MEMBERS
Kath Tompkins | President, Arroyo Grande
Rick Williams | Vice President, Arroyo Grande
Pat Hosegood Martin | Secretary, San Luis Obispo
Anita Robinson | Treasurer, Atascadero
Jeff Buckingham, San Luis Obispo
Grenda Ernst, Atascadero
Gwen Erskine, Templeton
Suzanne Fritz, Atascadero
Rob Garcia, Templeton
Shelly Higginbotham, Pismo Beach
Ben McAdams, San Luis Obispo
Anneka Scranton, Los Osos
Tom Sherman, Cayucos
Linda Somers Smith, Arroyo Grande
Thank you for being an essential part of The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County’s journey. Your generosity and dedication continue to create lasting change across the community. We invite you to partner with us in shaping a brighter future whether through donations, volunteering, or advocacy. Together, we can make an even greater impact. Visit cfsloco.org to learn more or get involved today.
Photo By: Chris McKiernan