Photos courtesy Lumina Alliance.
SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Alliance’s signature gala, Lumina Nights: Dancing with Our Stars, brought the community together for two unforgettable, sold-out evenings on May 1 and 2 at the Vina Robles Tasting Room in Paso Robles, raising over $400,000 in support of survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence. Of that total, the STAR dancers alone raised over $115,000 for Lumina Alliance’s essential programs.
STAR dancers included Jeanette Trompeter, County of San Luis Obispo Public Information Specialist; Ryan and Amber Blevins, Community Members; Kris Beal, Paso Robles City Councilmember; Bruce Gibson, District 2 County Supervisor, and Cherie Gibson; Heather Muran, Director of Portfolio Strategy and Marketing at Covelop; and Joel Peterson, CEO of the Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance.
Jeanette Trompeter, County of San Luis Obispo Public Information Specialist, was named Grand Champion, raising over $26,000 in support of Lumina Alliance’s therapy program.
“It was so heartwarming to see friends and community supporters step up like they did to help change lives,” said Trompeter. “I think the thing I’m most proud of is how it will help children living in homes affected by violence and will change the trajectory of their lives for the better.”
Heather Muran, Director of Portfolio Strategy and Marketing at Covelop, was named Runner-Up, raising over $23,000. Ryan Blevins, local community leader, received Fan Favorite honors for Friday night, and Kris Beal, Paso Robles City Councilmember, was named Fan Favorite for Saturday night.
“This event is such a powerful reflection of what happens when community shows up,” said Brandee Brown-Puett, Development Director at Lumina Alliance. “Working alongside these dancers and seeing the level of commitment, creativity, and heart they brought to this experience has been incredible. The support from our community was inspiring, and we are so grateful to everyone who made this event possible.”
Lumina Alliance CEO Jennifer Adams added, “We are deeply grateful to our community for showing up in such a meaningful way, from supporting our dancers to giving generously through donations and sponsorships, and for joining us for two unforgettable nights. This level of support truly makes our work possible.”
Lumina Alliance also extends deep gratitude to the many volunteers who contributed their time, energy, and care to ensure the success of Lumina Nights.
To learn more about Lumina Alliance events or how to get involved, visit LuminaAlliance.org or email development@luminaalliance.org
About Lumina Alliance
Lumina Alliance is a nonprofit that empowers those impacted by sexual and intimate partner violence through advocacy, healing, and prevention programs. For over 40 years, Lumina has been a beacon of support in San Luis Obispo County, providing essential services to help survivors reclaim their lives and thrive. Lumina Thrift, the organization’s new social enterprise, supports survivors in our shelters and transitional housing while creating a steady stream of income to reduce reliance on federal funding during uncertain times. For more information, visit LuminaAlliance.org
