Projects Funded in 2024:

Avila Beach Civic Association
Amount Funded:  $7,000
  • To offset the costs of Community Center management
Avila Beach Life News
Amount:  $4,000
  • For monthly home delivery of this local print news publication to residents and businesses in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.
Avila Beach Free Trolley 
Amount:  $3,700
  • For seasonal operation of the free Avila Beach Trolley.
Cancer Well Fit Program
Amount Funded:  $4,000 
  • To continue the wellness program for cancer survivors in our community.
Central Coast Aquarium
Amount Funded:  $5,000  
  • Requesting funds to support its daily operational costs. 
Friends of Avila Pier
Amount Funded:  $5,000
  • Requesting funds to help with refurbishing costs for the Avila Pier.
KCBX Public Radio 
Amount Funded:  $1,500
  • To cover a portion of the costs to maintain the transmitter that serves Avila Beach and South County.
Nature Track
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • Requesting funds for costs associated with Freedom Trax trips and events for wheelchair users at Avila Beach.
Noor Foundation
Amount Funded:  $5,000 
  • To subsidize costs associated with providing health services for uninsured or underinsured Avila Beach residents. 
Operation Surf Central Coast
Amount Funded:  $2,500 
  • To help pay for costs associated with conducting the 2024 Avila Beach camp program for wounded military men and women
People’s Self-Help Housing
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • To help offset the costs of supportive housing services for residents of Lachen Tara Apartments in Avila Beach.
Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers
Amount Funded:  $5,000  
  • To cover a portion of the costs for the Cistern Project.
Port San Luis Harbor District
Amount Funded:  $6,000
  • Purchase of dog waste bags and dispenser upkeep supplies.
Surfrider Foundation
Amount Funded:  $1,500 
  • Purchase of laboratory supplies for the Blue Water Task Force program for sampling water flowing into San Luis Creek and Avila Beach.

Projects Funded in 2023:

Avila Beach Civic Association
Amount Funded:  $7,000
  • Community Center building maintenance, repairs, utilities, taxes, etc.
Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Amount Funded:  $4,750 
  • General equipment purchases, scholarships, transportation.
Avila Beach Life News
Amount:  $4,000
  • For monthly mail delivery of this local print news publication to residents and businesses in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.
Avila Beach Free Trolley 
Amount:  $3,700
  • For seasonal operation of the free Avila Beach Trolley.
Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School
Amount Funded:  $3,000 
  • Requesting funds to buy items that assist with motor development, imaginative play and fine motor skills for kindergarten aged children.
Cancer Well Fit Program
Amount Funded:  $3,850 
  • Continue/expand wellness program for cancer survivors in our community.
Central Coast Aquarium
Amount Funded:  $4,000 
  • Improve aquarium exhibit to increase animal welfare.
KCBX Public Radio 
Amount Funded:  $1,250
  • Maintenance of transmitter that serves Avila Beach and South County.
Noor Foundation
Amount Funded:  $4,500
  • To subsidize costs associated with providing health services for uninsured or underinsured Avila Beach residents.
Operation Surf Central Coast
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • General expenses for the week-long program held in Avila Beach that serves wounded military veterans.
People’s Self-Help Housing
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • Supportive housing services for residents of Lachen Tara Apartments in Avila Beach.
Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers
Amount Funded:  $4,200 
  • Facility maintenance and operations.
Port San Luis Harbor District
Amount Funded:  $4,750
  • Purchase of dog waste bags and dispenser upkeep supplies.
Surfrider Foundation
Amount Funded:  $1,000 
  • Purchase of laboratory supplies for the Blue Water Task Force program for sampling water flowing into San Luis Creek and Avila Beach.

Projects Funded in 2022:

Note: Once again in light of the difficulties of the ongoing global pandemic, the Board decided to dispense with the traditional grant application processes this year, and instead elected to provide the same level of funding to eligible agencies in 2022 that they did in 2021.

Avila Beach Civic Association
Amount Funded:  $8,000
  • Community Center building maintenance, repairs, utilities, taxes, etc.
Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Amount Funded:  $5,000 
  • General equipment purchases, scholarships, transportation.
Avila Beach Life News
Amount:  $4,000
  • For monthly mail delivery of this local print news publication to residents and businesses in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.
Avila Beach Free Trolley 
Amount:  $3,700
  • For seasonal operation of the free Avila Beach Trolley.
Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School
Amount Funded:  $3,000 
  • Offset operational costs due to Pandemic response, such as increased health/safety measures, instructional technology oversight/repair/replacement.
Cancer Well Fit Program
Amount Funded:  $4,000 
  • Continue/expand wellness program for cancer survivors in our community.
Central Coast Aquarium
Amount Funded:  $5,000 
  • Provide vital upgrade and maintenance of exhibits housing sea-life creatures.
KCBX Public Radio 
Amount Funded:  $1,800
  • Maintenance of transmitter that serves Avila Beach and South County.
Noor Foundation
Amount Funded:  $3,700
  • Clinical operations expenses such as medical supplies, outsourced diagnostics and medical staff.
Operation Surf Central Coast
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • General expenses for the week-long program held in Avila Beach that serves wounded military veterans.
PathPoint Beach Cleanup Program
Amount Funded:  $10,000 
  • For seasonal removal of sand transference and debris that collects along the beach boardwalk, planters and gutters on both sides of the Avila Promenade.
People’s Self-Help Housing
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • Supportive housing services for residents of Lachen Tara Apartments in Avila Beach.
Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers
Amount Funded:  $4,300 
  • Facility maintenance and operations.
Port San Luis Harbor District
Amount Funded:  $5,000
  • Purchase of dog waste bags and dispenser upkeep supplies.
Surfrider Foundation
Amount Funded:  $1,000 
  • Purchase of laboratory supplies for the Blue Water Task Force program for sampling water flowing into San Luis Creek and Avila Beach.

Projects Funded in 2021:

Note: In light of the difficulties of the ongoing global pandemic, the Board decided to dispense with the traditional grant application processes this year, and instead elected to provide the same level of funding to eligible agencies in 2022 that they did in 2021.

Avila Beach Civic Association
Amount Funded:  $8,000
  • Community Center building maintenance, repairs, utilities, taxes, etc.
Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Amount Funded:  $5,000 
  • General equipment purchases, scholarships, transportation.
Avila Beach Life News
Amount:  $4,000
  • For monthly mail delivery of this local print news publication to residents and businesses in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.
Avila Beach Free Trolley 
Amount:  $3,700
  • For seasonal operation of the free Avila Beach Trolley.
Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School
Amount Funded:  $3,000 
  • Offset operational costs due to Pandemic response, such as increased health/safety measures, instructional technology oversight/repair/replacement.
Cancer Well Fit Program
Amount Funded:  $4,000 
  • Continue/expand wellness program for cancer survivors in our community.
Central Coast Aquarium
Amount Funded:  $5,000 
  • Provide vital upgrade and maintenance of exhibits housing sea-life creatures.
KCBX Public Radio 
Amount Funded:  $1,800
  • Maintenance of transmitter that serves Avila Beach and South County.
Noor Foundation
Amount Funded:  $3,700
  • Clinical operations expenses such as medical supplies, outsourced diagnostics and medical staff.
Operation Surf Central Coast
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • General expenses for the week-long program held in Avila Beach that serves wounded military veterans.
PathPoint Beach Cleanup Program
Amount Funded:  $10,000 
  • For seasonal removal of sand transference and debris that collects along the beach boardwalk, planters and gutters on both sides of the Avila Promenade.
People’s Self-Help Housing
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • Supportive housing services for residents of Lachen Tara Apartments in Avila Beach.
Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers
Amount Funded:  $4,300 
  • Facility maintenance and operations.
Port San Luis Harbor District
Amount Funded:  $5,000
  • Purchase of dog waste bags and dispenser upkeep supplies.
Surfrider Foundation
Amount Funded:  $1,000 
  • Purchase of laboratory supplies for the Blue Water Task Force program for sampling water flowing into San Luis Creek and Avila Beach.

Projects Funded in 2020:

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project:  Community Center Management & Apple Festival Support
Amount Funded:  $8,000 (Matching)
  • The purpose of this grant is to provide the ABCA resources to operate the Avila Beach Community Center.  These funds will partially fund the Executive Director, whose duties are to provide leadership, manage and administer all functions of the organization to ensure that year-round programs, activities and services will be provided. 
Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project:  Summer Program Support
Amount Funded:  $5,000 (Matching)
  • This grant will help fund the highly popular summer program that involves 200 youngsters annually by subsidizing costs associated with scholarships, equipment, transportation and storage.
Avila Beach Life News
Project:  Mailing to Avila Beach Households
Amount:  $4,000
  • Funds to subsidize the mailing of the monthly Avila Beach Life News to households in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.
Avila Beach Free Trolley 
Project:  Subsidize Free Trolley Rides
Amount:  $3,700
  • This is a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to enable South County Area Transit to operate a trolley (during high season and Friday Farmers’ Market weekends) that is free to riders who want to come to Avila Beach in a loop that extends from Port San Luis to the Pismo Beach Outlets.
Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School
Project:  Outdoor Seating Area
Amount Funded:  $3,000 (Matching)
  • Funding to help purchase outdoor seating tables, stands and umbrellas that provides shade for lunch, recess and outdoor classroom work spaces. 
Cancer Well Fit
Project:  Cancer Well-Fit Program
Amount Funded:  $4,000 (Matching)
  • Program provides nutrition, exercise and health coaching at Avila Bay Club to cancer patients living in the area.
Central Coast Aquarium
Project:  Microscope Upgrades
Amount Funded:  $5,000 
  • This grant will pay for the repair of 16 microscopes and to purchase two new microscopes to support the educational and daily activities done at the Aquarium. 
Friends of Avila Pier
Project:  Capacity-Building for Fundraising
Amount Funded:  $3,500
  • Funding would be used to help develop initial communication tools, both hard copy and digital, to help raise $2 million from the community to restore the Avila Pier. 
KCBX Public Radio 
Project:  Avila Beach Transmitter Maintenance
Amount Funded:  $1,800
  • This grant would be used for the monthly maintenance of the Avila Beach radio transmitter located at Cal Poly Pier that allows residents of Avila Beach and the 5 Cities area clear reception of the KCBX channel.
Noor Foundation
Project:  Subsidize Medical Services
Amount Funded:  $3,700
  • This grant would be used to subsidize medical services for uninsured SLO Noor Health Clinic patients who reside in Avila Beach.
Operation Surf Central Coast
Project:  Program Support For Veterans
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • This grant will be used for Operation Surf’s week-long program in Avila Beach scheduled for October 2020. The week will host up to 25 wounded veterans from across the nation for a curriculum that aims to help them overcome challenges and instill hope.
People’s Self-Help Housing
Project:  Supportive Housing Case Management Services 
Amount Funded:  $2,000
  • This grant covers most of the cost for case-management support for residents of the Lachen Tara Apartments, a subsidized housing complex in Avila Beach.  Case management helps residents access community services and transition into permanent affordable housing.
Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers
Project:  Oil House Restoration Project
Amount Funded:  $1,847 
Project:  Fog Signal Building Maintenance
Amount Funded:  $2,453
  • This grant will be used to fund the costs of historically accurate gutters and downspouts to complete the restoration of the old oil house at the light station.
  • This grant will help fund the costs of painting the exterior of the fog signal building at the light station as part of regular maintenance. 
Port San Luis Harbor District
Project:  Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded:  $5,000
  • This grant will fund the purchase of roughly 100,000 bio-degradable doggy waste bags to be placed in dispensers along high dog traffic beaches, pier and parking areas, thus making it easier for dog walkers to help keep our beach area clean.
Port San Luis Harbor District
Project:  Pier & Landing Rehabilitation
Amount Funded:  $10,000 
  • This grant will help fund the rehabilitation of the Avila Pier and its landing so that full and safe public access can be restored to the entire pier and its landing.  
Surfrider Foundation
Project:  Ocean Water Quality Testing
Amount Funded:  $1,000 (Matching)
  • This grant will help fund the Blue Water Task Force program to cover the costs for the testing equipment for weekly testing of the water quality at multiple sites in Avila Beach.​

Projects Funded in 2019:

Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School
Project:  Tech Upgrade
Amount Funded:  $3,125 (Matching)
  • Funding to help purchase secure device charging stations for three classrooms and increase the number of iPads so that students from 2nd to 6th grades each have an iPad  to use for research and to complete class work. This will help bring the school into line with modern teaching practices. 
Port San Luis
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $5,000
  • This grant will fund the purchase of roughly 100,000 bio-degradable doggy waste bags to be placed in dispensers along high dog traffic beaches, pier and parking areas, thus making it easier for dog walkers to help keep our beach area clean.
Cancer Well Fit
Project:  Cancer Well-Fit Program
Amount Funded: $4,000 (Matching)
  • Program provides nutrition, exercise and health coaching at Avila Bay Club to cancer patients living in the area.
Central Coast Aquarium
Project:  Exhibit Improvements
Amount Funded: $5,000 (To be used for Central Coast Aquarium only)
  • This grant will fund a new custom-made rock formation insert for the Giant Pacific Octopus exhibit which is the Aquarium's most popular exhibit.  The goal of the project is to enhance the animal's welfare by providing a habitat similar to its natural environment.
Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers
Project:  Exhibit Refurbishment 
Amount Funded: $4,679 
Project:  Native Plant Garden Installation
Amount Funded:  $4,000 (Contingent upon acquiring balance of project funding)
  • This grant will be used to build a new museum quality four-wall exhibit to showcase the history of Avila Beach and the Point San Luis Lighthouse. 
  • This grant will help fund the final portion of the Lower Terrace Restoration project for the installation of a native plant garden. 
 Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project: Summer Program Support
Amount Funded: $6,500 (Matching)
  • This grant will help fund the highly popular summer program that involves 200 youngsters annually by subsidizing costs associated with scholarships, equipment, transportation and storage.
People’s Self-Help Housing
Project: Supportive Housing Case Management Services 
Amount Funded: $4,000
  • This grant covers most of the cost for case-management support for residents of the Lachen Tara Apartments, a subsidized housing complex in Avila Beach.  Case management helps residents access community services and transition into permanent affordable housing. 
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Community Center Management Support
Amount Funded: $8,500 (Portion Matching)
  • The purpose of this grant is to provide the ABCA resources to operate the Avila Beach Community Center.  These funds will partially fund the Executive Director, whose duties are to provide leadership, manage and administer all functions of the organization to ensure that year-round programs and services will be provided. 
Surfrider Foundation
Project: Ocean Water Quality Testing
Amount Funded:  $1,000 
  • This grant would help fund the Blue Water Task Force program to cover the costs for the testing equipment for weekly testing of the water quality at multiple sites in Avila Beach.
KCBX Radio 
Project: Avila Beach Transmitter Maintenance
Amount Funded: $1,800
  • This grant would help cover the maintenance costs of the new radio transmitter that replaced an aging transmitter located on Cal Poly Pier.  This transmitter allows residents of Avila Beach and the 5 Cities area clear reception of the KCBX channel.
Free Avila Beach Trolley (SCAT)
Project:  Subsidize Free Trolley Rides
Amount:  $3,700
  • This is a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to enable South County Area Transit to operate a trolley (during high season and Friday Fish and Farmers’ Market weekends) that is free to riders who want to come to Avila Beach in a loop that extends from Port San Luis to the Pismo Beach Outlets.
Avila Community News
Project:  Mailing to Avila Beach Households
Amount:  $4,200
  • Funds subsidize the mailing of the Avila Community News to households in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.

Projects Funded in 2018:

Achievement House 
Project: Beach Clean-Up Crew
Amount Funded: $2,970
  • This grant provides funds for the Achievement House crew to conduct clean-up work on and around the town of Avila Beach during high season between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  The group clean areas adjacent to the promenade and focuses on areas of the town not handled by SLO County Public Works.
Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School
Project:  Tech Upgrade
Amount Funded:  $6,250 (Matching)
  • Funding to upgrade existing computers in the classrooms used by the teachers and to increase the number of iPads so that students from 2nd to 6th grades each have an iPad  to use for research and to complete class work. This will help bring the school into line with modern teaching practices. 
Port San Luis
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $5,100
  • This grant will fund the purchase of roughly 100,000 bio-degradable doggy waste bags to be placed in dispensers along high dog traffic beaches, pier and parking areas, thus making it easier for dog walkers to help keep our beach area clean.
Cancer Well Fit
Project:  Cancer Well-Fit Program
Amount Funded: $5,000 (Matching)
  • Program provides nutrition, exercise and health coaching at Avila Bay Club to cancer patients living in the area.
Central Coast Aquarium
Project:  Scientist for a Day 
Amount Funded: $5,000 
  • Scholarship program for students who would otherwise not be able to experience the educational opportunities provided by the CCA.  Program targets kids in Title 1 schools and lower income families that do not have sufficient travel funds. 
Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers
Project:  Lighthouse Trolley Repair 
Amount Funded: $4,020 
Project:  Restoration of Outdoor Landing
Amount Funded:  $4,800 (Contingent on completion of set-up, administration & site prep)
  • Funding for repairs/upgrades to new trolley including additional seating, painting, speaker/PA system and new front bumper.  Trolley is used for tours and to transport people up to special events being hosted at the Lighthouse
  • Funding for restoration and beautification of the Lower Terrace area that is used for events.
 Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project: Summer Program Support
Amount Funded: $6,500
  • This grant will help fund the highly popular summer program that involves 200 youngsters annually by subsidizing costs associated with scholarships, equipment, transportation, and storage.
People’s Self-Help Housing
Project: Case Supportive Housing Case Management Services 
Amount Funded: $4,000
  • This grant covers most of the cost for case-management support for residents of the Lachen Tara Apartments, a subsidized housing complex in Avila Beach.  Case management helps residents access community services and transition into permanent affordable housing. 
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Community Center Management Support
Amount Funded: $10,000 (Portion Matching)
  • The purpose of this grant is to provide the ABCA resources to operate the Avila Beach Community Center.  These funds will partially fund the Executive Director, whose duties are to provide leadership, manage and administer all functions of the organization to ensure that year-round programs and services will be provided. 
Surfrider Foundation
Project: Ocean Water Quality Testing
Amount Funded:  $1,000 (Matching)
  • Funds for their Blue Water Task Force program to cover the costs for the testing equipment for weekly testing of the water quality at multiple sites in Avila Beach.
Free Avila Beach Trolley (SCAT)
Project:  Subsidize Free Trolley Rides
Amount:  $5,000
  • This is a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to enable South County Area Transit to operate a trolley (during high season and Friday Fish and Farmers’ Market weekends) that is free to riders who want to come to Avila Beach in a loop that extends from Port San Luis to the Pismo Beach Outlets.
Avila Community News
Project:  Mailing to Avila Beach Households
Amount:  $4,800
  • Funds subsidize the mailing of the Avila Community News to households in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.

Projects Funded in 2017:

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Achievement House Clean-Up Crew
Amount Funded: $2,900
  • This grant provides funds for the Achievement House crew to conduct clean-up work on and around the town of Avila Beach during high season between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  The group clean areas adjacent to the promenade and focuses on areas of the town not handled by County Public Works.
Port San Luis
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $6,000
  • This grant will fund the purchase of roughly 100,000 bio-degradable doggy waste bags to be placed in dispensers along high dog traffic beaches, pier and parking areas, thus making it easier for dog walkers to help keep our beach area clean.
Cancer Well Fit
Project:  Cancer Well-Fit Program
Amount Funded: $4,000 (Portion Matching)
  • Program provides nutrition, exercise and health coaching at Avila Bay Club to cancer patients living in the area.
Central Coast Aquarium
Project:  Scientist for a Day 
Amount Funded: $5,000 
  • Funding for up to 18 classes educating approximately 600 students from SLO and Santa Barbara Counties.  The program targets kids in Title 1 schools that do not have sufficient travel funds. CCA provides 50% of the scholarship and schools match.
SLO Film Festival
Project: Produce Video
Amount Funded:  $2,500 
  • The funds will be used to produce a 10-15 minute video highlighting Avila's history that will premiere at the 2017 SLO Film Festival 
Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers
Project:  Repair of Deck & Stairs
Amount Funded: $2,500
Project:  Restore Light Station Metal Lamp Enclosure
Amount Funded:  $2,500 (Matching)
  • Funds assist with the repair of the deck and stairs to Head Keeper's quarters and funds to restore the light station metal lamp enclosure.
 Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project: Summer Program Support
Amount Funded: $6,000 (Matching)
  • This grant will help fund the highly popular summer program that involves 200 youngsters annually by subsidizing costs associated with scholarships, equipment, transportation, and storage.
People’s Self-Help Housing
Project: Case Supportive Housing Case Management Services 
Amount Funded: $5,000
  • This grant covers most of the cost for case-management support for residents of the Lachen Tara Apartments, a subsidized housing complex in Avila Beach.  Case management helps residents access community services and transition into permanent affordable housing.  Also includes a smaller grant to help residents struggling to keep up with rising water bills. 
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Management Support
Amount Funded: $10,000 (Portion Matching)
  • The purpose of this grant is to provide the ABCA resources to operate the Avila Beach Community Center.  These funds will partially fund the Executive Director, whose duties are to provide leadership, manage and administer all functions of the organization to ensure that year-round programs and services will be provided. 
Free Avila Beach Trolley (SCAT)
Project:  Subsidize Free Trolley Rides
Amount:  $3,000
  • This is a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to enable South County Area Transit to operate a trolley (during high season and Friday Fish and Farmers’ Market weekends) that is free to riders who want to come to Avila Beach in a loop that extends from Port San Luis to the Pismo Beach Outlets.
Avila Community News
Project:  Mailing to Avila Beach Households
Amount:  $4,800
  • Funds subsidize the mailing of the Avila Community News to households in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.

Projects Funded in 2016:

People’s Self-Help Housing
Project: Case Supportive Housing Case Management Services 
Amount Funded: $5,000
  • This grant covers most of the cost for case-management support for residents of the Lachen Tara Apartments, a subsidized housing complex in Avila Beach.  Case management helps residents access community services and transition into permanent affordable housing.  Also includes a smaller grant to help residents struggling to keep up with rising water bills. 
Arts Obispo
Project:  Avila Beach Public Art Project
Amount Funded:  $1,250
  •    Grant to help facilitate the Foundation sponsored Avila Beach Public Art Project.​
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Management Support
Amount Funded: $10,000
  • The purpose of this grant is to provide the ABCA resources to operate the Avila Beach Community Center.  These funds will partially fund the Executive Director, whose duties are to provide leadership, manage and administer all functions of the organization to ensure that year-round programs and services will be provided. 
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Achievement House Clean-Up Crew
Amount Funded: $5,400
  • This grant provides funds for the Achievement House crew to conduct clean-up work on and around the town of Avila Beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  The group cleans areas adjacent to the promenade and focuses on areas of the town not handled by County Public Works.
Bellevue - Santa Fe School
Project: iPads for Student Learning
Amount Funded: $4,500 (Matching)
  • This matching grant provides funds to purchase iPads to enhance student learning. 
Port San Luis
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $4,000
  • This grant will fund the purchase of roughly 100,000 bio-degradable doggy waste bags to be placed in dispensers along high dog traffic beaches, pier and parking areas, thus making it easier for dog walkers to help keep our beach area clean.
Cancer Well Fit
Project:  Cancer Well-Fit Program
Amount Funded: $2,500 (Matching)
  • Program provides nutrition, exercise and health coaching at Avila Bay Club to cancer patients living in the area.
Central Coast Aquarium
Project:  Scientist for a Day 
Amount Funded: $4,000 
  • Program serves approx. 500 kids from our County and outside the County. Currently serve approx.. 2000 kids per year. CCA are reaching out to kids in Title 1 schools that do not have sufficient travel funds. CCA provides 50% of the scholarship, the schools must match. CCA is heavily recruiting to high schools and science teachers.
SLO Film Festival
Project: Film Festival in Avila Beach
Amount Funded:  $2,000 
  • The funds are used to host a film festival event at an Avila Beach venue. 
Lighthouse Keepers
Project:  ADA Ramp
Amount Funded: $2,500 (Matching)
  • Funds assist with completing handicap ramp that leads to portion of facility that isn't currently accessible.
 Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project: Summer Program Support
Amount Funded: $4,000 (Matching)
  • This grant will help fund the highly popular summer program that involves 200 youngsters annually by subsidizing costs associated with scholarships, equipment, transportation, and storage.
Free Avila Beach Trolley (SCAT)
Project:  Subsidize Free Trolley Rides
Amount:  $3,000
  • This is a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to enable South County Area Transit to operate a trolley (during high season and Friday Fish and Farmers’ Market weekends) that is free to riders who want to come to Avila Beach in a loop that extends from Port San Luis to the Pismo Beach Outlets.
Avila Community News
Project:  Mailing to Avila Beach Households
Amount:  $4,800
  • Funds subsidize the mailing of the Avila Community News to households in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.

Projects Funded in 2015:

People’s Self-Help Housing
Project: Case Supportive Housing Case Management Services 
Amount Funded: $6,000
  • This grant covers most of the cost for 8 hours a week of case-management support for residents of the Lachen Tara Apartments, a subsidized housing complex in Avila Beach.  Case management helps residents access community services and transition into permanent affordable housing.
Avila Beach Community Foundation
Project: Historical Tour Smart Phone App
Amount Funded: $3,185
  • The purpose of this grant is to develop a historical tour smart phone app for locals and visitors alike.  Funding provides for historical research related to the project, technical development, and up to three years of expenses.
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Management Support
Amount Funded: $12,000
  • The purpose of this grant is to provide the ABCA resources to operate the Avila Beach Community Center.  These funds will partially fund the Executive Director, whose duties are to provide leadership, manage and administer all functions of the organization to ensure that programs and services will be provided. 
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Achievement House Clean-Up Crew
Amount Funded: $5,670
  • This grant provides funds for the Achievement House crew to conduct clean-up work on and around the town of Avila Beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  The group cleans areas adjacent to the promenade and focuses on areas of the town not handled by County Public Works.
Bellevue - Santa Fe School
Project: iPads for Student Learning
Amount Funded: $4,250 (Matching)
  • This matching grant provides funds to purchase iPads to enhance student learning. 
Port San Luis
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $4,930
  • This grant will fund the purchase of roughly 80,000 bio-degradable doggy waste bags to be placed in dispensers along high dog traffic beaches, pier and parking areas, thus making it easier for dog walkers to help keep our beach area clean.
Avila Bay Club
Project:  Cancer Well-Fit Program
Amount Funded: $2,000 (Matching)
  • Program provides nutrition, exercise and health coaching to cancer patients living in the area.
Central Coast Aquarium
Project:  Scientist for a Day 
Amount Funded: $5,000 
  • Program serves approx. 500 kids from our County and outside the County. Currently serve approx.. 2000 kids per year. CCA are reaching out to kids in Title 1 schools that do not have sufficient travel funds. CCA provides 50% of the scholarship, the schools must match. CCA is heavily recruiting to high schools and science teachers.
SLO Film Festival
Project: Film Festival in Avila Beach
Amount Funded:  $3,000 
  • The SLO Film Festival brought “Sport Shorts” and “California Dreaming” to Avila Beach The funds  are for signage and promotions to bring more people to Avila and for facility rental. 

Lighthouse Keepers
Project:  Historical Reenactment
Amount Funded: $2,500 (matching grant)
  • Funds assist with era-costuming for the Lighthouse historical reenactments.
 Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project: Summer Program Support
Amount Funded: $5,000 ($2,500 to be matched)
  • This grant will help fund the highly popular summer program that involves 200 youngsters annually by subsidizing costs associated with scholarships, equipment, transportation, and storage.
Free Avila Beach Trolley
Project:  Subsidize Free Trolley Rides
Amount:  $5,000
  • This is a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to enable South County Area Transit to operate a trolley (during high season and Friday Fish and Farmers’ Market weekends) that is free to riders who want to come to Avila Beach in a loop that extends from Port San Luis to the Pismo Beach Outlets.
Avila Community News
Project:  Mailing to Avila Beach Households
Amount:  $4,500
  • Funds subsidize the mailing of the Avila Community News to households in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.

Projects Funded in 2014:

People’s Self-Help Housing
Project: Case Supportive Housing Case Management Services 
Amount Funded: $6,000
  • This grant covers most of the cost for 8 hours a week of case-management support for residents of the Lachen Tara Apartments, a subsidized housing complex in Avila Beach.  Case management helps residents access community services and transition into permanent affordable housing.
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Management Support
Amount Funded: $17,000
  • The purpose of this grant is to provide the ABCA resources to operate the Avila Beach Community Center.  These funds will partially fund the Executive Director, whose duties are to provide leadership, manage and administer all functions of the organization to ensure that programs and services will be provided. 
Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Achievement House Clean-Up Crew
Amount Funded: $5,670
  • This grant provides funds for the Achievement House crew to conduct clean-up work on and around the town of Avila Beach during high season between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  The group cleans areas adjacent to the promenade and focuses on areas of the town not handled by County Public Works.
Port San Luis
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $4,200
  • This grant will fund the purchase of roughly 80,000 bio-degradable doggy waste bags to be placed in dispensers along high dog traffic beaches, pier and parking areas, thus making it easier for dog walkers to help keep our beach area clean.
Central Coast Aquarium
Project:  Scientist for a Day 
Amount Funded: $5,000 
  • Program serves approx. 500 kids from our County and outside the County. Currently serve approx.. 2000 kids per year. CCA are reaching out to kids in Title 1 schools that do not have sufficient travel funds. CCA provides 50% of the scholarship, the schools must match. CCA is heavily recruiting to high schools and science teachers.
SLO Film Festival
Project: Film Festival in Avila Beach
Amount Funded:  $3,000 
The SLO Film Festival brought “Sport Shorts” and “California Dreaming” to Avila Beach The funds  are for signage and promotions to bring more people to Avila and for facility rental. 

 Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project: Summer Program Support
Amount Funded: $7,000
  • This grant will help fund the highly popular summer program that involves 200 youngsters annually by subsidizing costs associated with scholarships, equipment, transportation, and storage.
Free Avila Beach Trolley
Project:  Subsidize Free Trolley Rides
Amount:  $5,000
  • This is a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to enable South County Area Transit to operate a trolley (during high season and Friday Fish and Farmers’ Market weekends) that is free to riders who want to come to Avila Beach in a loop that extends from Port San Luis to the Pismo Beach Outlets.
Avila Community News
Project:  Mailing to Avila Beach Households
Amount:  $4,500
  • Funds subsidize the mailing of the Avila Community News to households in Avila Beach and Avila Valley.

Projects Funded in 2013:


Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Management Support
Amount Funded: $15,750
  • The purpose of this grant is to provide the ABCA resources to operate the Avila Beach Community Center.  These funds will partially fund the Executive Director, whose duties are to provide leadership, manage and administer all functions of the organization to ensure that programs and services will be provided. 

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Achievement House Clean-Up Crew
Amount Funded: $5,670
  • This grant provides funds for the Achievement House crew to conduct clean-up work on and around the town of Avila Beach during high visitor season in 2013.  These clean-up efforts are focused on areas of the town not handled by County Public Works.

Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project: Summer Program Support
Amount Funded: $7,000
  • This grant will help fund the highly popular summer program that involves 200 youngsters annually by subsidizing costs associated with scholarships, equipment, transportation, and storage.

People’s Self-Help Housing
Project: Case Supportive Housing Case Management Services
Amount Funded: $6,500
  • This grant covers most of the cost for 8 hours a week of case-management support for residents of the Lachen Tara Apartments, a subsidized housing complex in Avila Beach.  Case management helps residents access community services and transition into permanent affordable housing.

Port San Luis
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $4,200
  • This grant will fund the purchase of roughly 100,000 bio-degradable doggy waste bags to be placed in dispensers along high dog traffic beaches, pier and parking areas, thus making it easier for dog walkers to help keep our beach area clean.

San Luis Obispo International Film Festival (SLOIFF)
Project: Avila Beach Film Festival Venue Support
Amount Funded: $3,500
  • This grant will fund the purchase of quality projection equipment and rental of the Avila Beach Community Center as part of the “Festival’s” 2013 program line-up.  The new equipment will be housed at and managed by the Community Center for year-round use by renters and for special fundraising events.

Save Our Schoolhouse
Project: Website Redesign
Amount Funded: $1,100
  • This grant will fund a website project to help educate residents and visitors on the status of the historic schoolhouse, and to promote fundraising and raise awareness of the site.

Cancer Well-Fit Program
Project:  Recovery Program for Recovering Cancer Survivors
Amount Funded:  Up to $4,000 as a Matching Grant
  • This grant will fund the expansion of the number of individuals able to enroll in an 8-week series of classes (held at the Avila Bay Club at no cost) that address the physical, emotional and social needs of recovering cancer patients.

Free Avila Beach Trolley
Project:  Subsidize Free Trolley Rides
Amount:  $5,000
  • This is a continuation of the Foundation’s commitment to enable South County Area Transit to operate a trolley (during high season and Friday Fish and Farmers’ Market weekends) that is free to riders who want to come to Avila Beach in a loop that extends from Port San Luis to the Pismo Beach Outlets.

Projects funded in 2012:


People's Self Help Housing
Project: Case Worker for Avila Beach Residents living in People's Self Help Housing.
Amount Funded: $4,000
  • Grant provides 8 hours a week of Case Management to the Supportive Housing Services Program. in Avila Beach.

Port San Luis Harbor District
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $3,235
  • Mutt Mitts are bio-degradable, disposable, doggy wastes bags that are given out to general dog-walking public, free of charge, to encourage them to pick up after their pets.  The District has 9 dispensers at (high) dog traffic beach areas, pier and parking areas, and a large number of trash receptacles.  Hundreds of thousands of people visit Avila Beach each year, and many of them bring their dogs.  So many, in fact, that the Harbor District goes through more than 70,000 Mutt Mitts per year. 

Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project:  Program Expenses
Amount Funded: $11,000
  • The purpose of the grant is to support the program with costs associated with the scholarships, equipment, transportation, and storage.

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project:  Organizational Staffing
Amount Funded: $18,000
  • The purpose of the grant is to provide the ABCA resources to assist it in managing and administering the Avila Beach Community Center and leading the overall organization.  This grant will fund the Executive Director position. Duties of the Executive Director will be to manage and administrate all functions of the organization to ensure that programs and services will be provided.  This includes planning, organizing, coordinating, and implementing all necessary work.  The Executive Director would also provide the leadership, in cooperation of the ABCA Board for the Annual Fundraising Campaign.

Avila Beach Sea Life Center
Project:  See the Sea Community Education Programs
Amount Funded: $8,000
  • In partnership with Cal Poly, the See the Sea program is geared toward adults seeking to learn more about Avila sea life and will feature rotating exhibits.

Avila Beach Sea Life Center
Project:  Scientist for a Day Scholarships
Amount Funded: $10,000
  • This grant provides funds to continue the Avila Beach Community Foundation Scientist for a Day Scholarship Program for students who would otherwise be unable to experience the tremendous educational opportunities provided by the ABSLC.  With this program, the ABSLC will be able to allow teachers the flexibility to attend a two-hour comprehensive marine biology course located at the facility, or reduce the cost of enjoying the incredible experience of the four hour Floating Lab program aboard one of the Patriot Sportfishing Vessels.  Such an experience makes an enourmous impact on the student's interests in science and enthusiasm for learning.  It is the mission of the ABSLC to engage students in an experience that will serve them for life while creating a life-long love for the ocean, its inhabitants, and a passion for learning.

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project:  Achievement House Beach Clean-up
Amount Funded: $5,770
  • This grant provides funds for the Achievement House crew to conduct, clean-up, work on and around the town of Avila Beach during high visitor season of 2012.

Avila Beach Trolley
Project: Weekend & Holiday Trolley
Amount Funded: $5,000
  • The grant will assist in the operational costs of the Avila Beach Trolley.

Projects Funded in 2011:


Port San Luis Harbor District
Project: Mutt Mitts
Amount Funded: $3,425
  • Mutt Mitts are bio-degradable, disposable, doggy wastes bags that are given out to general dog-walking public, free of charge, to encourage them to pick up after their pets.  The District has 9 dispensers at (high) dog traffic beach areas, pier and parking areas, and a large number of trash receptacles.  Hundreds of thousands of people visit Avila Beach each year, and many of them bring their dogs.  So many, in fact, that the Harbor District goes through more than 70,000 Mutt Mitts per year.  This grant will provide Mutt Mitts as a one-time grant to the Port San Luis Harbor District.

San Luis Obispo International Film Festival
Project: Movie in a Day Marathon
Amount Funded: $2,500
  • This grant funds the expenses of a very popular workshop which has been part of the SLO Film Festival for the past two years.  This Movie in a Day Marathon will give Avila Beach the chance to be the focus of the all of the films made in the competition.  The grant will also continue to support the growing Youth Film-making summer program by supplying needed equipment.

South County Area Transit & RTA
Project: Avila Trolley - Marketing and Advertising Programs 
Amount Funded: $4,880
  • The purpose of this grant is to increase Avila Trolley ridership and revenue.  This will accomplished by increasing greater awareness and visibility of stops, and more actively promoting advertising opportunities.  More Trolley ridership benefits the area by reducing car trips, traffic, parking, and pollution in one of San Luis Obispo County's most pristine beach areas.

Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project:  Program Expenses
Amount Funded: $12,000
  • The purpose of the grant is to support the program with costs associated with the scholarships, equipment, transportation, and storage.

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project:  Organizational Staffing
Amount Funded: $20,000
  • The purpose of the grant is to provide the ABCA resources to assist it in managing and administering the Avila Beach Community Center and leading the overall organization.  This grant will partially fund the Executive Director and the current position of the Program Coordinator.  These two positions will oversee the implementation of the program and services of the ABCA primarily through the Community Center.  Duties of the Executive Director will be to manage and administrate all functions of the organization to ensure that programs and services will be provided.  This includes planning, organizing, coordinating, and implementing all necessary work.  The Executive Director would also provide the leadership, in cooperation of the ABCA Board for the Annual Fundraising Campaign.

Avila Beach Sea Life Center
Project:  Scientist for a Day Scholarships
Amount Funded: $8,000
  • This grant provides funds to continue the Avila Beach Community Foundation Scientist for a Day Scholarship Program for students who would otherwise be unable to experience the tremendous educational opportunities provided by the ABSLC.  With this program, the ABSLC will be able to allow teachers the flexibility to attend a two-hour comprehensive marine biology course located at our facility, or reduce the cost of enjoying the incredible experience of the four hour Floating Lab program aboard one of the Patriot Sport Fishing Vessels.  Such an experience makes an enormous impact on the student's interests in science and enthusiasm for learning.  It is the mission of the ABSLC to engage students in an experience that will serve them for life while creating a life-long love for the ocean, its inhabitants, and a passion for learning.

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project:  Achievement House Beach Clean-up
Amount Funded: $5,130
  • This grant provides funds for the Achievement House crew to conduct, clean-up, work on and around the town of Avila Beach during high visitor season of 2011.

Avila Beach Trolley
Project: Weekend & Holiday Trolley
Amount Funded: $5,000
  • The grant will assist in the operational costs of the Avila Beach Trolley.

Projects Funded in 2010:


Avila Beach Sea Life Center - (Formerly Avila Beach Marine Institute)
Project: Entryway Tank 
Amount Funded: $5,000
  • The grant will fund the preparation and installation of an entryway aquarium for the new Sea Life Center.  The tank will be a multi-use tank, both as an aquarium and model of the Avila Bay sea floor.

Avila Beach Sea Life Center - (Formerly Avila Beach Marine Institute)
Project: "Scientist for a Day" Program
Amount Funded: $10,000
  • The grant will fund the Scientist-For-A-Day Scholarship for students who would otherwise be unable to experience the tremendous educational opportunities provide by the Sea Life Center.

Cal Fire Station 62
Project: "Grandpa" Fire Engine Preservation
Amount Funded: $1,000
  • The grant will be used to restore the original wood ladders and fund a new replica hose bed cover.

Avila Beach Save Our School House
Project: Avila Historical Society & History Museum
Amount Funded: $4,999
  • The grant will help fund the creation of an Avila Beach History Museum in the Old Avila School House.

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Management Support
Amount Funded: $20,000
  • The grant will provide management support for the administration of the Avila Beach Community Center and provide leadership for the organization.

Avila Beach Civic Association
Project: Achievement House
Amount Funded: $5,130
  • The grant will provide financial support to the Achievement House for beach clean-up services.

Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program
Project: Junior Lifeguard Program
Amount Funded: $9,000
  • The grant will assist in the operational costs and preservation of equipment for the 2010 Junior Lifeguard Program.

Avila Beach Trolley
Project: Weekend & Holiday Trolley
Amount Funded: $5,000
  • The grant will assist in the operational costs of the Avila Beach Trolley.