Tax changes rarely feel local. But the decisions families make because of them are. As federal tax provisions shift in 2026, including potential changes to standard deductions and charitable deduction rules, many individuals and families may revisit how they structure their philanthropy. For those who care about investing in San Luis Obispo County, this is …
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Community Foundation Announces New Board Members and 2026 Slate of Officers
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is pleased to announce a new slate of Board officers and welcome two respected local leaders to its Board of Directors. Community leaders Teresa J. Rhyne and John Stevens have joined the Board, bringing deep experience in philanthropy, public service, and community leadership at an important moment for …
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UndocuSupport Fund Becomes One Community Fund
We’re sharing an important update about our work alongside immigrant communities in San Luis Obispo County. Our UndocuSupport Fund has evolved into One Community Fund: Fueling a Vibrant Immigrant Future, reflecting a renewed focus on flexible funding, community leadership, and coordinated support for organizations serving immigrant families across our county. “What began as a grassroots …
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Giving Guide
Give Today. Transform Tomorrow. As 2025 draws to a close, this is a once-in-a-generation moment for generosity. With major tax changes coming in 2026, giving before December 31, 2025, offers both greater impact and stronger tax advantages. Why 2025 Is the Smart Year for Generosity Beginning in 2026, new federal rules will make charitable giving …
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Give Now, Do More Good: Why 2025 Is the Smart Year for Generosity
By The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County October 2025 With the federal “ One Big Beautiful Bill” set to reshape the tax landscape in 2026, this year presents a unique opportunity for donors to maximize their charitable impact. The coming changes, while aimed at simplifying the tax code, are expected to reduce or limit …
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Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County Names Christine Dawson as New CEO
The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County (CFSLOCO) is pleased to announce Christine Dawson, CFRE, as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 30, 2025. She succeeds Heidi McPherson, who led the Foundation from 2014 until her departure in February. Dawson brings over 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience and a deep understanding of strategic …
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Remembering Paul Wolff
Our community has lost a remarkable citizen and a guiding light for humankind. Retired Cal Poly architecture professor Paul Wolff died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on April 17. Having experienced the worst of humanity as a Jewish child in Nazi Germany, Paul became an example of a life well-lived and to the …
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The Fabric of SLO County: Understanding the diversity and contributions of our immigrant community
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 …
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Happy 95th Birthday, Paul Wolff!
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 …
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Next In Our Backyard Event is April 24, 2024
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 …
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