Lumina Alliance Launches “Light the Way”

San Luis Obispo, CA—Lumina Alliance has launched the Light the Way lifeline campaign, a bold three-year, $5 million fundraising initiative to ensure that survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence in San Luis Obispo County continue to have access to life-saving resources. With nearly half of the organization’s funding at risk due to potential federal funding cuts, vital services—including emergency shelter, therapy, and crisis intervention—are in jeopardy.

“For thousands of survivors in San Luis Obispo County, Lumina Alliance is their only lifeline,” said Jennifer Adams, CEO of Lumina Alliance. “Without urgent funding, we risk losing the essential services that help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.”

National data shows that 1 in 4 women experience rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime—translating to potentially more than 35,000 women in San Luis Obispo County. Additionally, approximately 26% of children are exposed to domestic violence, affecting nearly 13,000 children locally. Without intervention, domestic and sexual violence persist, impacting generations to come.

To spearhead the Light the Way lifeline campaign, Lumina Alliance has assembled a dedicated Campaign Task Force, including David Juhnke, Debby Nicklas, Courtney Taylor, Maggie Tillman, Ryan Caldwell, Ron Vyse, and Ron Yukelson. These local leaders are committed to mobilizing the community and securing the critical funds needed to sustain and expand Lumina Alliance’s impact.

How to Support the Campaign

The Light the Way lifeline campaign seeks to raise $5 million over three years to:

• Protect Critical Services threatened by federal funding cuts.

• Advocate for Survivors as they face increasing social and financial challenges.

• Sustain Life-Saving Programs that provide safety, healing, and prevention for women and those most at risk.

“This is not just about numbers—it’s about real people in our community who rely on these services every day,” said David Juhnke, Campaign Co-Chair with his wife Sharon. “We have an opportunity to step up and make sure that no victim is left without support.”

Community members can contribute by making a donation, spreading awareness, or getting involved with fundraising efforts. Every dollar raised helps keep survivors safe and ensures that San Luis Obispo County remains a place where healing and hope are possible.

For more information or to donate, visit LuminaAlliance.org.

About Lumina Alliance
Lumina Alliance is a San Luis Obispo County nonprofit that empowers those impacted by sexual assault and intimate partner violence through advocacy, healing, and prevention programs. For over 40 years, Lumina Alliance has been a beacon of support in the community, providing essential services—including therapy, shelter and transitional housing—to help survivors reclaim their lives and thrive. For more information, visit LuminaAlliance.org.