We are lucky to live in a place as bountiful as California’s Central Coast. But of course, we know the fruits, vegetables and wine grapes that make up a staple of our region’s economy don’t grow themselves.
Agriculture in San Luis Obispo County thrives through the hands-on care of thousands of vineyard and farm workers.
During this year’s Central Coast Wine Classic, the community got the opportunity to turn around and give something back to these men and women whose work is not often recognized for its importance.
The Central Coast Wine Classic is a festive weekend that raises support for nonprofits in San Luis Obispo County and Santa Barbara County. Every year, as a part of the weekend’s live auction, bidders are presented with a relevant and significant need in the community. It’s called a “Fund-a-Need.”
This year, the Fund-a-Need raised $145,700 – the second most ever in the history of the event — to support Talley Vineyards’ Fund for Vineyards and Farm Workers (those who, let us take notice, brought wine to the Central Coast Wine Classic in the first place).
The Fund for Vineyards and Farm Workers was founded in 2004 by Brian and Johnine Talley of Talley Vineyards. It’s an endowment held by the Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County, and it provides grants to nonprofit organizations that support San Luis Obispo agricultural workers and their families.
The significant contribution to the Fund for Vineyard and Farm Workers
will be distributed in the form of grants to nonprofit organizations that provide support and resources to these vineyard and farm workers. Organizations include The Children’s Health Initiative, Literacy for Life, Peoples’ Self Help Housing, the Bright Futures After School Academic Program and many others
If you want in on this cause, there are plenty more chances to contribute. All proceeds of Talley Vineyards’ Mano Tinta charity red wine blend go to this fund, as well as sales from the family’s new cookbook, Our California Table. You can also donate directly on the Community Foundation’s site.