Do I have to give $1,000?

No, you don’t! Every contribution, no matter the amount, is valuable and helps us create lasting change. All donations are pooled together, allowing us to make a bigger impact together than we could alone. Whether you give $10 or $1,000, your generosity helps drive meaningful progress for women and girls in our community.

Why do I need to give if the fund already has $2 million?

The $2 million you’re referring to is part of our endowment—an invested fund that generates income year after year. Only a portion of the earnings from these investments is used annually to support important programs, ensuring that the principal continues to grow and provide sustainable support well into the future.

When you donate, you’re helping us build on this foundation so we can support more programs, reach more women and girls, and increase our community’s strength over time. Every gift matters because it allows us to expand our reach and increase the impact we have today and for generations to come.

How does the fund grow?

The Women’s Legacy Fund grows through the generous support of our community and the earnings from our carefully managed investments. Every donation, big or small, helps us provide more grants each year to organizations that are dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls. This approach ensures that we are creating a lasting legacy of support for future generations.

What is Collective Giving?

Collective Giving is the power of community in action. By pooling together contributions from individuals like you, we are able to make larger, more impactful grants that address the most pressing needs of women and girls in San Luis Obispo County. Together, every gift adds up to make a difference that none of us could achieve on our own.

How does giving to women and girls programs affect the entire community?

When women and girls thrive, the entire community benefits in powerful and far-reaching ways. By investing in women’s and girls’ programs, we are addressing fundamental needs that ripple out to affect families, workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods. By giving to programs that focus on women and girls, you are making an investment not just in individuals, but in the overall strength and future of San Luis Obispo County. It’s about creating opportunities for everyone to thrive, leading to a community where all members can reach their full potential.

For example, investing in programs that address women’s health, including reproductive and mental health, ensures that they can lead healthy, productive lives. Healthy women and children are better able to contribute to the community, reducing long-term healthcare costs and improving overall well-being.

Empowering women and promoting gender equality are critical to building a fair and inclusive society. When women are empowered, the ripple effects lead to better health outcomes, stronger economies, and reduced poverty. Yet, many women still face barriers that limit their full participation in societal progress. Overcoming these obstacles requires collaboration from individuals, communities, and policymakers alike. Together, we can foster a more equitable world, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

What happens if we don’t give?

Without continued donations, the fund will still show small growth over time. However, without donor support, the fund will not grow at the rate that is needed to support the important programs that help women and girls meet their needs. This could mean fewer opportunities for women and girls to thrive in areas like health, education, and financial independence, ultimately impacting the overall well-being of our community.

Your support ensures we can continue this important work and make a lasting difference.

When is the next event?

Our next event is the annual Women’s Legacy Fund Luncheon, held in late September. This gathering celebrates the progress we’ve made, honors our grant recipients, and brings together a community of supporters like you to invest in the future. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, learn, and make a tangible impact.

What types of programs does the Women’s Legacy Fund support?

We fund a variety of programs focused on improving the lives of women and girls, including initiatives focused on economic independence, basic needs (like housing and food), safety from violence, reproductive health, education, and mental health. Each year, we assess the most urgent needs in our community to ensure that our grants make the greatest possible impact.

How are grant recipients chosen?

Our funding decisions are guided by a comprehensive report, What Do Women Need, which is produced every five years. This helps our Advisory Committee identify critical needs and direct funding to the programs that will make the biggest difference. Each grant application is carefully reviewed by a community-based committee to ensure that our funds support the most effective and impactful initiatives for women and girls in San Luis Obispo County.

Can I direct my donation to a specific program?

When you give to the Women’s Legacy Fund, you’re joining a collective effort to address the most pressing needs of women and girls in our community. While donations aren’t directed to specific programs, every dollar goes toward the initiatives that make the most meaningful difference, as determined by our well informed Advisory Committee.

What is a Legacy Leader?

The Legacy Leader Program exists to honor, connect, educate, and celebrate the Women’s Legacy Fund core circle of donors who are committed to building a permanent resource to address the needs of women and girls in San Luis Obispo county.

A Legacy Leader is a core donor that supports the Women’s Legacy Fund with an initial gift of $1000 and sustains the fund with a renewed annual gift year over year. 

By becoming a Legacy Leader, you’ll be part of a dedicated community that is committed to creating a permanent resource for women and girls in San Luis Obispo County.

Can businesses get involved with the Women’s Legacy Fund?

Absolutely! Businesses can make a big difference by sponsoring our annual luncheon or donating to the fund. Sponsorship packages offer recognition across multiple platforms, giving businesses a way to publicly demonstrate their commitment to strengthening the community and supporting women and girls.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes! Your donation is tax-deductible, as the Women’s Legacy Fund is part of the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. After making your contribution, you’ll receive a receipt for your records.

How can I stay informed about the Women’s Legacy Fund?

Stay connected with us by signing up for our newsletter, following us on social media, and attending our annual luncheon. These channels will keep you up-to-date on the impact of your donations, upcoming events, and other ways to get involved in supporting women and girls in our community.