December, 2009

First and foremost, the Board of Trustees and staff here at the “Foundation” wish each of our Avila Beach friends and neighbors a joyous holiday season.  ‘Tis the season of goodwill, a time to celebrate with those nearest and dearest, and the beginning of yet another new year.  It is also the time of year when many of us contemplate our good fortunes and extend a generous helping hand to worthy community organizations and projects.  

Along that line, The “Foundation”, as it does annually at this time, has selected our local grant recipients for 2010.  We are proud to announce funding support for…..

 

• Avila Beach Civic Association:  $20,000 to partially fund operational management staffing
• The Sea Life Center: (formerly Avila Beach Marine Institute):  $10,000 in scholarships for their “Scientist for a Day” program, and $5,000 towards a new entryway display
• Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program:  $9,900 to assist in operational costs and equipment preservation
• Pale Kai Outrigger Canoe Club:  $7,000 to run their summer youth program
• Save Our Schoolhouse:  $5,000 toward the creation of an Avila Beach History Museum in the Old Avila Schoolhouse
• Free Avila Trolley:  $5,000 to maintain free weekend and holiday trolley rides around Avila Beach
• “Grandpa” Preservation:  $1,000 for continued restoration of the original 1941 Avila Beach Fire Engine

All in all, our Trustees approved a total grant allotment of $62,900 in our continuing mission to enhance life in Avila Beach.  The projects listed above are also eligible for the “Foundation’s” matching gift initiative, meaning that if you write a check to the “Foundation” for $100 or more designated to one or more of these projects, we will match the amount of each gift up to $100.  But remember, this offer is only available for donations received by December 31, 2009 – and only the first 50 contributions will be matched.  Write your check(s) and send to Avila Beach Community Foundation, PO Box 297, Avila Beach, CA  93424.

Have you completed the AVILA SPEAKS online survey yet?  Don’t miss out on this opportunity to offer your feedback and share your opinions about life in Avila Beach.  It will only take about five minutes, and by doing so you will be automatically entered to win the ULTIMATE AVILA BEACH GETAWAY.  Two mini “staycations” are up for grabs, and include lodging, meals, golf, wine tasting, mineral pool visits, and relaxation therapy.  These wonderful hospitality services have been generously donated by some of your favorite Avila Beach merchants, including Avila Village Inn, Avila Lighthouse Suites, Avila Beach Golf Resort, Custom House, Olde Port Inn, Woodstone & Avila Beach Market Place, Avila Hot Springs Resort, Morovino, Hula Hut, Salisbury Vineyards, La Mirage Café at Avila Hot Springs, and MindSpa.   You can easily complete the online survey by visiting the “Foundation” home page at www.avilabeachfoundation.org, where you can’t miss the survey link.

Season’s greetings from all of us at the Avila Beach Community Foundation.

May you enjoy a 2010 filled with prosperity, good health and fulfillment.