PURPOSE party of 125 guests raises $2.8M in one night
August 12, 2026
On Saturday August 8th 125 people gathered at Law Estate Wines for PURPOSE, Must! Charities’ annual invitation-only fundraising experience. By the end of the evening, where a record-breaking $2.8 million was generously donated for the local community. This year’s Fund-a-Need will help launch Dentistry in School, bringing essential dental care directly to children in San Miguel through Tolosa Children’s Dental Center.
Austin Hope Charity Golf Tournament Raises $167,000 for Must! Charities
June 23, 2026
The 2026 Austin Hope Charity Golf Tournament once again showcased the power of community, raising $167,000 for Must! Charities during a sold-out day at Hunter Ranch Golf Course. Hosted by Austin Hope and Hope Family Wines, the annual event brought together golfers, sponsors, and volunteers to support the work of Must! Charities across San Luis Obispo County.
Youth Board Raises $12,500 for CELEBRE
May 26, 2026
The Must! Charities Youth Board continues to prove that high school students can make a meaningful impact. Comprised of 27 high school students from across San Luis Obispo County, the board combined leadership development with hands-on service to 12 local nonprofits before selecting CELEBRE as its 2026 benefit partner. Together, they raised $12,500 to help empower low-income and first-generation young women on their journey to higher education.
Applications Open for The Pitch
March 2, 2026
Must! Charities is bringing back The Pitch in Fall 2026. This program is designed to elevate nonprofit leaders, strengthen their storytelling, and inspire community giving.
Applications are now open for nonprofits and coaches.
Announcing 2026 Board Officers and New Board Member
February 5, 2026
Must! Charities is proud to announce its 2026 elected board officers and welcomes a new member to its Executive Board as the organization celebrates 14 years of service and community impact in San Luis Obispo County.
The Pitch Raises $150K for Local Nonprofits
November 10, 2025
The inaugural event The Pitch inspired over $150,000 in collective giving to support local nonprofits across San Luis Obispo County. For months leading up to the event, nine local nonprofits worked alongside expert coaches to refine their message, share their stories, and strengthen their ability to connect with the community.
Must! Charities Launches Transformative Partnership with Meals that Connect
October 2, 2025
Must! Charities is proud to announce a new initiative in partnership
with Meals That Connect to strengthen leadership, define strategy, and ensure long-term sustainability for one of San Luis Obispo County’s most critical senior support programs. This effort comes at a pivotal time
as demand for services surges and funding declines, leaving thousands of vulnerable older adults at risk.
Must! Charities Leadership Alliance - Apply Now for Cohort #2
September 29, 2025
Applications are now open for the second cohort of its Leadership Alliance Program, a bold initiative equipping nonprofit leaders with the tools, connections, and vision to strengthen both their organizations and the community.
The application window runs from September 25 through October 16, 2025, and selected participants will gather for the first time on Thursday, December 4, 2025.
SLO Food Bank Launches Local Harvest Fund
August 19, 2025
The SLO Food Bank has launched the Local Harvest Fund, a new initiative created in response to the loss of $600,000 in federal funding from the Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) program. The fund will sustain local food purchasing efforts, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, regionally grown food for families in need while supporting local farmers and ranchers.
A historic multi-year $2.3M investment from Must Charities is kick-starting the campaign! Must Charities will help the food bank continue strengthening the county’s food system. By 2030, the SLO Food Bank aims to invest $1.5 million in purchasing food directly from local producers.
PURPOSE Raises Nearly $2.5M in One Night
August 14, 2025
Must! Charities PURPOSE is redefining Philanthropy in on the Central Coast. The event raised nearly $2.5 million in a single evening, bringing its five-year total to over $10 million. With just 150 guests in attendance at Epoch Estate Wines, this intimate, invitation-only gathering has secured its place among the most impactful fundraising events anywhere in the nation.
Youth Board Empowers Local Students to Lead and Serve
August 11, 2025
The Must! Charities Youth Board is proving that high school students can make a big impact. Comprised of 31 high school students in San Luis Obispo County, the board combines leadership development with hands-on volunteer work for more than a dozen local nonprofits. The students raised over $9,340, including a $2,500 match from JB Dewar, to expand mentoring, arts programs, and safe after-school activities for local youth.