Lumina Alliance’s Light the Way Campaign in San Luis Obispo reaches $1.9 million milestone to sustain critical survivor services

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Lumina Alliance’s Light the Way Lifeline Campaign, a three-year, $5 million fundraising effort created to protect critical services for survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence, has raised more than $1.9 million as it enters its second year.

Launched in response to growing uncertainty surrounding federal and state funding, the campaign was designed to help sustain life-changing programs that provide safety, healing, and prevention throughout San Luis Obispo County. With nearly 50% of Lumina Alliance’s budget historically supported by government funding, the campaign focuses on building long-term community investment to ensure survivors continue to have access to 24/7 crisis support, emergency shelter, transitional housing, therapy, advocacy, and prevention education.

“We live in an amazing community! Lumina Alliance has challenged us to ensure that survivors have a safe, healing place to turn to in time of need, and support along the way in their difficult journeys,” said Debbie Wacker, campaign supporter. “Our community has stepped up to the challenge, raising $1.9 million in just one year. Lumina Alliance is hoping to meet the $2 million mark by June 30, and I am confident this incredible community will make that happen. Every donation, no matter the amount, will help meet this milestone. I encourage you to be part of Lumina Alliance’s mission, and help those in need.”

The campaign’s momentum has been fueled by generous leadership support from AFX Research, Ann Robinson, CoVelop, Inc., Dave and Sharon Juhnke, Debby and Steve Nicklas, Greg and Carrie Sanders, Jill LeMieux, Lisa Mackenzie, Ron and Adrienne Vyse, Rudy and Jackie Bachmann, Sheila and Russ Levanway, and the Wacker Family, whose collective commitment reflects a shared dedication to sustaining programs that empower survivors to seek safety and lasting healing.

“This campaign is about ensuring that survivors always have a place to turn,” said Jennifer Adams, CEO at Lumina Alliance. “The generosity of our community has brought us to this important milestone, but there is still work to do. Every gift helps sustain shelter, housing, therapy, advocacy, and crisis support for survivors and their families. Together, we can ensure these life-changing services remain available for years to come.”

Lumina Alliance also extends its gratitude to MUST! Charities for its ongoing partnership and investment in programs that strengthen safety, stability, and opportunity throughout San Luis Obispo County.

While the campaign is approaching the halfway mark, more than $3 million remains to reach the $5 million goal. Community support at every level will be essential to sustaining the no cost, confidential services survivors rely on every day.

To learn more about the Light the Way Lifeline Campaign or make a contribution, visit LuminaAlliance.org/donate or contact Brandee Brown Puett at bbrownpuett@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.